As we move forward into the second month of the year, I must say that I am in hopes that the snow continues to come on the weekend although my husband, a teacher and ski coach disagrees with me. Perhaps I am in the minority in that thought; however, I do think that it is a great idea! With 2012 well underway, I hope that you have kept up with all of the activities that are available at both of our district schools. We have been very busy attempting to provide the education that your children deserve in accordance with the state’s expectations and standards. You may notice some varying programs and activities that we have been implementing to focus on improved student academic achievement. While providing direct oversight in all school aspects, our administrators are highly skilled in best practice methods, and our teachers are working diligently on best practice instructional methodologies in their classrooms. Together, we can assist our children to be the best that they can be!
In her book, Sugar Cookies: Sweet Little Lessons on Love, Amy Krouse Rosenthal has authored yet another children’s book that focuses on character education in our lives. This particular selection is perfect for the upcoming month whether or not you recognize Valentine’s Day! Throughout the book, Ms. Rosenthal provides definitions for words in direct relationship to cookies. By way of example, the following are two examples of her work:
“ADMIRE means, I really look up to you and the way you are with your cookies. You remind me of what is good and possible in this world.”
and
“SUPPORTIVE means that when your cookies are a huge hit at the bake sale no one is happier for you than I am.”
What wonderful ways to provide children of all ages with definitions that can be utilized as a springboard for conversations to flow. These words are rather abstract for children, yet can be used in both the home and the school. We all must certainly have people we admire and those that are supportive. Literature of varying types is often used to help us understand and/or begin conversations that are relevant in so many situations. Think about it, the words in this book can apply to our everyday lives both in and out of schools. This selection, as well as her other books, are worth a read…we’ll all learn from them and besides, it will be fun to bake with each other too!
It is also the time of year that our Board of Education works with the district administration to create the 2012-2013 school budget. Again this year we are expecting a very steep increase in high school tuition that will certainly impact our budget. Again this year, I encourage you to attend our Board meetings and hear firsthand the challenges we face. Our February meeting is on February 14th, and I look forward to hearing your opinions. In the meantime, pick up any of Ms. Rosenthal’s “cookie books” and show what a SUPPORTIVE community we have to be ADMIRED by all!
Welcome January 2012! You may have enjoyed your children at home during the winter break; however, many of us were making sure that all was in order at our schools. Please note that there are many updates on our website ( www.lopatcongschool.org ) that Mr. Shea works to keep current. Our administrators and Board members have been diligently working on their responsibilities so that additional video podcasts can soon be viewed. Basic information is supplied on them and we encourage you to ask for additional information if you so desire. Also note that we are working to use our Virtual Backpack feature of our site to its fullest extent in order to help with our “green” efforts and to bring you those items that may otherwise not make it home! We look forward to your comments and suggestions on this newer process.
As many of you already know I am quite a reader and attempt to read both professional and leisure materials on a daily basis. Recently as I was reviewing the Sunday newspaper, I came across an article entitled Year of Pain, Year of Triumph by Jeffrey Zaslow that was featured in the Parade section of the newspaper. In this article, the author acknowledges all that recently injured Gabby Giffords and Mark Kelly have to celebrate regardless of all that has happened to them this past year. One of the author’s quotes, “When you’re with them, you can’t help wondering; Could I rise to the challenge?” was especially noteworthy to me. When I think about it, I ask myself this on almost a daily basis, and I certainly don’t have to overcome what they have had to do this past year. So, can I rise to the challenge to work the best that I know how in order to make things better for the students in our schools? Can any of us rise to that challenge to work toward a common goal of assisting the children in our care? Actually, it is a wonderful quote to keep at the forefront as we all forge ahead to assure that our children are taken care of in all that the school is responsible for. Think of the part of our mission statement that says, “…to provide our students with the educational foundation and environment to realize their full potential, to be contributing members of a global society, and to become lifelong learners.” Yes, it is important to work together toward a common goal!
As we move ahead to a brand new calendar year, I encourage you to be a part of our school district and your child’s education in any way that you can. Please adhere to the events on the calendar and those that may be scheduled for involvement at either school.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012 (7:00 meeting start) – Lopatcong Township Board of Education meeting in the Middle School Instrumental Music Room
Monday, January 9, 2012 (7:00 start with a snowdate of January 16, 2012) – Mr. Robert Feltmann, Director of Guidance at Phillipsburg High School, will provide a presentation on high school scheduling that is sure to help our 8th graders and their families with the freshman scheduling process.
January 19th – January 21st – Middle School Drama Presentation ofGrease, Jr. to be held in the Middle School All-purpose room
Thursday, January 26, 2012 (6:30 start) – Lopatcong Elementary School Literacy Night presentation for parents
There is much to be a part of in our district and we hope that you will be able to be involved in some way. Think about the applicable portion of the quote noted above and apply it for our purposes…can we all rise to the challenge? I look forward to seeing you at many of our future events. Best wishes again for a wonderful 2012!
Now that we have had an early taste of the winter that may be ahead, let me remind you to make sure that you have registered for our School Messenger system, and also have checked out the numerous ways we inform the public of any emergency closings. Should you have any questions, please be sure to let us know as soon as possible so that we may attempt to remedy any specific situation. As this calendar year draws to a close and the upcoming new year, 2012, is upon us, let me remind you to check our website (www.lopatcongschool.org) regularly for updates. Mr. Shea works hard to keep the website up-to-date and current for the many needs of our school community. I ask that you pay special attention to the parent section and inform us if we may improve our communications here at all. Of special interest should be the upcoming podcasts that you may view at your leisure. Specifically the following podcasts will be added to those podcasts and videos already available: Mrs. Dutt and Mrs. Kondikoff will present information that was shared with our Board of Education regarding curriculum and instruction updates and the current and upcoming procedures required by the New Jersey Department of Education. Mr. Bonney will present current information on Power Walkthroughs being conducted by administrators that provide in depth data regarding the teaching and learning in our classrooms based on Robert Marzano’s book entitled Classroom Instruction That Works, and Mr. Krusman along with other Board members will provide current information on the workings of our Board of Education. In addition to this information, please be aware that we are working on expanding our Virtual Backpack to provide information straight to your computer’s in box! You can also find Lopatcong Township School District on Facebook where specific school information can be viewed.
Moreover, now that the first marking period has come to a close, it is my hope that you have met with your child’s classroom teacher to receive updates on his/her academic achievement. Should you still have questions or concerns, I would encourage you to contact your child’s teacher and ultimately the building principal. As administrators, we have been working with staff members to enhance our before-school and after-school program offerings. Programs ranging from before-school tutoring and after-school homework will hopefully be part of larger program offerings that include targeted instructional opportunities along with specialized reading options and study skills sessions. Postings have recently been distributed to staff members via email, and as such, data will be collected by building administrators in order that children’s needs are met. Should you have questions or comments about any of the program options that will be occurring in the near future, please contact your child’s building principal.
Our Special Education Parent Advisory Committee met in October and suggested that program offerings in
some social/club activities be made available for both children with special needs as well as typical age peers. Funds were allotted as part of the Individuals with Disabilities Improvement Act (IDEIA) to allow for some types of programs. In our brainstorming session, we discussed some club activities for children at the intermediate/middle level and some positive parenting sessions for children at the preschool/kindergarten/ primary levels. Plans are still being sorted out, and should you be interested in this or have suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Our next Parent Advisory Committee Meeting is listed on our school calendar and is scheduled for Wednesday, February 22nd at 7:00 in the Middle School CST Office. Reminder
notices will be sent out as a courtesy; I certainly hope to see you there!
As the spirit of the holiday season is upon us, please take the time to be involved in your child’s education. Working with my daughter as she plans her summer wedding and with my son as he pursues his college degree, I can tell you all too well just how fast time really does fly! Remember that in an article regarding Power Walkthroughs, Howard Pitler and Bryan Goodwin state “…there’s no single right way to teach, great teachers
employ a variety of teaching strategies…and use each strategy intentionally”. Similarly, in my opinion, there is no single right way to enjoy or appreciate this special time of year. Cherish the special family times you have together and may 2012 bring you all the best that is possible!
Living and Learning in Lopatcong,
Vicki Pede, Superintendent
Now that we have had an early taste of the winter that may be ahead, let me remind you to make sure that you have registered for our School Messenger system, and also have checked out the numerous ways we inform the public of any emergency closings. Should you have any questions, please be sure to let us know as soon as possible so that we may attempt to remedy any specific situation. As this calendar year draws to a close and the upcoming new year, 2012, is upon us, let me remind you to check our website (www.lopatcongschool.org) regularly for updates. Mr. Shea works hard to keep the website up-to-date and current for the many needs of our school community. I ask that you pay special attention to the parent section and inform us if we may improve our communications here at all. Of special interest should be the upcoming podcasts that you may view at your leisure. Specifically the following podcasts will be added to those podcasts and videos already available: Mrs. Dutt and Mrs. Kondikoff will present information that was shared with our Board of Education regarding curriculum and instruction updates and the current and upcoming procedures required by the New Jersey Department of Education, Mr. Bonney will present current information on Power Walkthroughs being conducted by administrators that provide in depth data regarding the teaching and learning in our classrooms based on Robert Marzano’s book entitled Classroom Instruction That Works, and Mr. Krusman along with other Board members will provide current information on the workings of our Board of Education. In addition to this information, please be aware that we are working on expanding our Virtual Backpack to provide information straight to your computer’s in box! You can also find Lopatcong Township School District on Facebook where specific school information can be viewed.
Moreover, now that the first marking period has come to a close, it is my hope that you have met with your child’s classroom teacher to receive updates on his/her academic achievement. Should you still have questions or concerns, I would encourage you to contact your child’s teacher and ultimately the building principal. As administrators, we have been working with staff members to enhance our before-school and after-school program offerings. Programs ranging from before-school tutoring and after-school homework will hopefully be part of larger program offerings that include targeted instructional opportunities along with specialized reading options and study skills sessions. Postings have recently been distributed to staff members via email, and as such, data will be collected by building administrators in order that children’s needs are met. Should you have questions or comments about any of the program options that will be occurring in the near future, please contact your child’s building principal.
Our Special Education Parent Advisory Committee met in October and suggested that program offerings in some social/club activities be made available for both children with special needs as well as typical age peers. Funds were allotted as part of the Individuals with Disabilities Improvement Act (IDEIA) to allow for some types of programs. In our brainstorming session, we discussed some club activities for children at the intermediate/middle level and some positive parenting sessions for children at the preschool/kindergarten/primary levels. Plans are still being sorted out, and should you be interested in this or have suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Our next Parent Advisory Committee Meeting is listed on our school calendar and is scheduled for Wednesday, February 22nd at 7:00 in the Middle School CST Office. Reminder notices will be sent out as a courtesy; I certainly hope to see you there!
As the spirit of the holiday season is upon us, please take the time to be involved in your child’s education. Working with my daughter as she plans her summer wedding and with my son as he pursues his college degree, I can tell you all too well just how fast time really does fly! Remember that in an article regarding Power Walkthroughs, Howard Pitler and Bryan Goodwin state “…there’s no single right way to teach, great teachers employ a variety of teaching strategies…and use each strategy intentionally”. Similarly, in my opinion, there is no single right way to enjoy or appreciate this special time of year. Cherish the special family times you have together and may 2012 bring you all the best that is possible!
Living and Learning in Lopatcong,
It is doubtful that anyone can deny that the fall season is certainly upon us as the beautiful colors of the season abound at every turn. Along with this seasonal change come some changes in our own school district as well. Presently, Mrs. Abigail Kutz has joined us as an interim business administrator/board secretary until such time that our new business administrator/board secretary, Mrs. Nancy DeRiso, can begin. Her contractual obligations go until December and we are looking forward to her joining our district prior to the winter break. In addition, we have recently accepted the resignations of Mrs. Cathy Redding and Mrs. Debbie Shelly. We thank them for their fine commitment to the children in Lopatcong and wish them well in their new endeavors.
At this past month’s PTA meeting we had the privilege of hearing two individuals and their messages that support all of our efforts toward character education and the new anti-bullying law that is currently in existence in New Jersey. Our own technology coordinator, Matt Shea, presented a wonderful program for parents on digital citizenship and all that we are doing to help students understand the navigation of the internet. Please visit our website (www.lopatcongschool.org) for additional parent resources to help us in the technological education of our children. In addition to Mr. Shea, Mrs. Linda Schuler from Community Prevention Resources presented a fine program regarding developmental assets. She allowed audience members time to reflect on the assets that they had supported throughout their own years of growing up. To me, this provided quite a venue to reflect on and appreciate even more all that I had been blessed with during my formative years.
During the evening, Mrs. Schuler provided me with a personal copy of one of her references entitled Great Places to Learn: Creating Asset-Building Schools that Help Students Succeed. This professional read is one that I am not quite through, but with the conversation and insight that Mrs. Schuler has shared, I can envision the reasons for including asset-building information contained within the pages as part of our school district practices. As the author states, “…to foster academic achievement and to provide a safe and healthy environment in which achievement can best occur…” is obviously a component of a school district’s mission. Think about it. During the month of October when we are mandated to provide a “Week of Respect” and a “Violence Awareness Week” in my opinion, we acknowledge the fact that strong home-school connections are vital to success. We have also had the privilege of extending the message of Rachel’s Challenge to our middle school students for yet another year hoping to strengthen the acts of kindness that one can do on a daily basis. To paraphrase the authors of this particular text, as positive assets go up, negatives go down. Isn’t that what we want for all of our children – successful academics while learning in a safe and caring environment? Only all of us together can create such a place for learning and growing.
As we look forward to all that the rest of our school year can bring, please remember to be a positive part of a home-school partnership. November brings ample opportunities for that with American Education Week, parent-teacher conferences, and literacy information nights all just around the corner. Please reach out to us so that we can work together to do the best that we can to support our children in all areas of their development. Change happens every day, and together, we can assure that all of our children continue to move forward in their learning and growing. As the authors in the book state, “…the ‘work’ of building assets is never over…” Only together can we make a positive difference.
As the school year has gotten underway, let me take the opportunity to share some of the words that were shared with our Lopatcong staff on the first day of school. The basis for some of the information came from a book entitled, The End of Molasses Classes, Getting Our Kids Unstuck by Ron Clark. In his book, Mr. Clark espouses “…practical, innovative, and powerful methods to enliven classrooms and ignite a passion for learning in each and every child.” As I shared with the staff, please imagine pouring molasses from a bottle. I believe we all can remember how slowly it pours out and even hesitates to drop from the security of the bottle itself. Think now of a class in which you had participated at some earlier time in your own life. Perhaps that particular class had no energy or was such that students (or you) had already “checked out” in their own way. Mr. Clark calls these types of classes, molasses classes – classes where students are just stuck!
Throughout his newest best seller, Mr. Clark shares some core principles and values that may assist us in the education of children. I had the pleasure of sharing and expanding on some of these during the opening day of in-service for our staff. For example, Mr. Clark’s first principle is “Teach children to believe in themselves and don’t destroy the dream.” In this principle, Mr. Clark encourages us to see students as future leaders (i.e., teachers, lawyers, managers, doctors, artists, business leaders) instead of as students with particular challenges. As a mother myself, I can clearly state that imagining the positive opportunities ahead for my own children can assist them both in school and at home! I always tried to focus on the positives of their learning rather than the negatives, a principle supported in Mr. Clark’s research. True, none of us are perfect, but a clear focus on what could be ahead is certainly better that a negative focus on what could be ahead.
Another of Mr. Clark’s principles is stated as follows: “Define your expectations and then raise the bar; the more you expect the better the results will be.” These are certainly interesting words on which to ponder. During the time I was a middle school teacher, there were two posters in my classroom that read “Children do not rise to low expectations” and “Never settle for less than your best”. In hindsight, these words ring true to the teachings of Mr. Clark who has had the mission of making a difference in the lives of children, all children! As he shares in one of his chapters, “…children like a challenge, and that when it is presented in a positive and encouraging way, they are receptive to giving it a shot…” We all know our own limitations and certainly work to promote the rising to higher level expectations for each of our children. I encourage you to reach out to our teachers and building level administrators in partnership with the type of expectations you envision for your children. As you go through your daily lives, think about the types of expectations we all can have for children everywhere. Your participation in the October Literacy Nights at each of our schools will help us help your children even more!
As you are aware, the new Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Law went into effect on September 1, 2011. In the Lopatcong Township School District, there are numerous activities that we continue to promote in order to inform students, parents, and the community at large. Information on the district policy that supports this law can be found on our website. Thank you to those of you who have been able to attend a training session regarding this new information. We truly appreciate the partnership, and look forward to seeing all of you at the October PTA meeting where there will be a presentation for parents on Digital Citizenship in such a technological savvy climate! As always, I continue to ask you to be involved in your child’s education, no matter his or her age. Reach out to us if you have questions or comments as we continue our efforts to become even better.
Living and Learning in Lopatcong,
Vicki Pede, Superintendent
Yes, it may be hard to believe, but once again it is that time of year when our school hallways and classrooms will finally include that wonderful sound of children again! Even with the impending hurricane-like weather and all of the construction we have had at our elementary school this summer, we WILL open on time. Through the diligent efforts of our summer staff led by Mr. Marinelli, our schools have been readied for a stellar opening on September 6, 2011. It has been a busy, but rewarding summer for all of us; there are many new faces to welcome our students and families into the Lopatcong community. The following new staff members will be there to welcome you as you enter one of our schools in just a short time from now:
§ Ms. Andrea Baker – Special Education/Behavioral Support (MS)
§ Ms. Lauren Beruta – 2nd grade teacher (ES)
§ Mr. Richard Bonney – Middle School Assistant Principal
§ Ms. Rene Boylan – 4th grade long term substitute teacher (ES)
§ Ms. Stephanie Condon – 2nd grade teacher (ES)
§ Mrs. Jeanene Dutt – Middle School Principal
§ Mrs. Noelle Kondikoff – Elementary School Principal
§ Ms. Valerie Turker – Academic Support long term substitute teacher (ES)
§ Ms. Casey Unangst – 3rd grade long term substitute teacher (ES)
§ Ms. Kim von Essen – Physical Education/Health (MS)
This year, we will be continuing our efforts on the Writing Workshop through the partnership with East Stroudsburg University and the National Writing Project. The concentration of these efforts will hopefully be at the elementary school this year so that the majority of the staff responsible for Language Arts Literacy in our district will now have been involved in the training. In addition through the cooperative efforts of the PTA, an extension of Rachel’s Challenge will be an integral part of our character education programming. Further, we will be strengthening our Response to Intervention (RTI) program to further concentrate on the needs of a balanced literacy program for our students. Efforts in this area are sure to be seen in the classroom/school instruction for your child. The Board of Education has adopted the following district/superintendent goals for this school year. The goals are all focused on improved education for our children and were approved as follows:
1. Provide professional support for new administrators
2. Develop and implement a Behavioral Support program
3. Evaluate the Elementary School facility and update as needed
4. Improve individual student progress in the areas of literacy, writing and math
May I remind you to please check our newly designed website (www.lopatsd.org) on a regular basis; Mr. Shea has worked diligently to improve our website and make our school district be highlighted in stellar fashion via the internet. With this in mind, please make sure to provide the school with your email address as we will be utilizing our virtual backpack to send many notices home. Please also note our efforts to continue to reduce the amount of paper that goes home. Once again, I ask that you note the importance of being involved in your child’s education. We welcome your part in this portion of educating the whole child! Remember that in order to volunteer in either of our schools, you must be approved each year and participate in special training, which includes the mandated anti-bullying training. It is very important that you complete the form the first week of school and watch for the days and times for volunteer training.
In closing, I need to share the information I noted in the staff opening letter. You see, it is a challenge for me to go away and not focus on our schools; you may be able to take this person out of this school district, but you can’t take this school district out of this person! As such, when away on vacation, the following quote was placed strategically in our room: “A family is like a forest, when you are outside it is dense, when you are inside you see that each tree has its place.” If you think about it, this quote can certainly apply to our district. Individually as members of any portion of the Lopatcong educational community we may be different; however, we all are focused on the goals of education for our children! Welcome back to our schools this year – we are anxious to see you all on September 6th!
Living and Learning in Lopatcong,
Vicki Pede
It is hard to believe that another school year is quickly coming to an end. Surely, this has been a memorable school year in some way(s) for everyone! As I am sure most of your schedules are truly hectic, please know that there is constantly an array of activity in our schools as well. Many of us are getting ready to say brief goodbyes to friends and colleagues that have been a part of this year as we embark on yet another leg of life’s journeys! Some of the goodbyes we need to say this particular year are to three of our building administrators who have given so much of their time and energy to the families of Lopatcong Township. As of June 30th, we need to bid farewell to our Middle School Principal, Mrs. Rosemary Kowalchuk who has given 14 years of service to Lopatcong Township. In addition, our Middle School Assistant Principal, Mr. Steve Geisel, will be retiring after 5.25 years of service to our district. Our best wishes and tons of thanks go to these individuals who have given so much to our staff, families, and most of all our children. They will truly be missed, but I know that our best wishes go to them and their families for a healthy and happy retirement. Their legacy will long be a part of Lopatcong Township! Aside from the retirements at the Middle School, our Elementary School Principal, Mr. Matthew Eagleburger, is leaving our school district to serve as the Superintendent/Principal of Franklin Township School District in Warren County. He has diligently served the families of Lopatcong Township for nine years and I know you join me in wishing him the best in this new endeavor! With three of our administrators leaving our district, rest assured that there is ample attention being paid to the details of hiring replacements. Although it is difficult to replace such talent, we are working diligently to assure that those replacements will be committed to our district and its children while understanding all of the aspects of teaching and learning that are part of our fine school system.
As the end of the year has quickly come upon us, it would be advantageous for all to be able to include our last week’s schedule as part of our plans. With that in mind, note that our students will enjoy their last full day of school on Friday, June 10, 2011. Monday, June 13th through Friday, June 17th will be early dismissal days for all students. Lunch will be served on all days, except for the last day of school (June 17th). In addition, preschool and kindergarten children will also have a special schedule. A note to parents will be sent home with all of our children; letters will also be posted on our website. Please note that except for the last day of school, our staff will participate in school-related activities during the afternoon times. For students, our next school year begins after Labor Day! That calendar will appear on our school website.
As those wonderful summer days come upon us, please remember that learning simply doesn’t end with the close of our calendar year. There are many of us who do work year round to assure a successful school year for our children and our staff. Keeping abreast of the educational trends, including the best way to connect teaching and learning remains around us at all times. We are proud of our Lopatcong students and want them to continue to be the best that the can be in all areas. We all continue learning each and every day…whether in school or enjoying the summer months!
As Sharon Draper remarks about children in finding the path to the future in her book Teaching from the Heart (one of my personal favorites), “…And who will walk that path? The children. Imagine a child - any child - hopeful, enthusiastic, curious. In that child sleeps the vision and the wisdom of tomorrow…” I have that vision of our children, looking forward to the world that lies ahead for them. It is our responsibility to help them learn and grow as they shape their own tomorrow. Have a great summer…and be ready to continue to learn and grow even more when September rolls around!
“Teachers who inspire believe that learning, doing and teaching happen in almost every area of life – and that all three often happen simultaneously. The child we are teaching to read and write is, in the same moment, teaching us about innocence and wonder.”
from Dear Teacher calendar by Dr. A. Witham
It is that time of year when we celebrate our Teachers of the Year. This year the two teachers who will be honored from our school district are Mrs. Janine Arnold from the elementary school and Mrs. Jackie Ellard from the middle school. At this time, we recognize all of the accomplishments of not only our honorees, but also all of the dedication our teachers have toward our students. Perhaps Mrs. Ellard’s words of gratitude express just what our feelings are when she says that “…all of us working collectively…empower our students with the knowledge and skills to go on to be intelligent and responsible citizens.” In addition to that, Mrs. Arnold states that it is her “…mission is to prepare… students for lives that shine and illuminate the world.” In short, both educators exemplify the true meaning of teacher and accept the honor on behalf of all of those educators who work toward helping our children to strive to be the best that they can be! These teachers, who will be honored this year at the County Teacher of the Year Ceremony on May 6th, model the quote at the onset of this page, a quote that happens to be listed for May 6th on my perpetual calendar. How fitting that the Teacher of the Year Ceremony is that same day. My heartfelt and humble congratulations go out to both of these fine educators!
This is also the time of the school year for two other annual opportunities in schools across our great state! On Wednesday, April 27, 2011, our school budget was passed by the voters of Lopatcong Township. I appreciate the fact that voters recognized that we had already made very difficult decisions on items to take out of our budget. The budget on which you voted included some difficult cuts, but please be assured that we will work to ensure that the best programs we can offer to our students will be implemented to assure the high quality of education we strive to attain. In addition to the budget, the upcoming month includes considerable required testing for our students. I ask that you please refer to our district calendar for the specific dates for the various grade levels. Please make sure your children get plenty of rest for those long days of testing. Students across the grade levels have worked very hard throughout this school year, and we want to make sure they are well-rested and ready to face the challenges ahead! As always, we appreciate your partnership with our school district in this way and we all realize the pressure that your children, our students, may be feeling is real!
As stated at various times throughout the year, educating the whole child is important to all of us. Continue to be involved in your child’s education, and attend those special school events as you are able. Being involved in your child’s school happenings is such an important aspect of the educational process. Reflect on the words in the initial quote as there is so much we can learn from each other! I look forward to seeing you at any of our upcoming school activities. Enjoy the sunshine now that winter is in our past and thank you for entrusting your children to us!