Wow it has been a fast and furious couple of weeks. We are currently hosting celebrations for students who scored all “distinguished” (in every area) on the CATS test. We are definitely making progress - last year we were able to recognize 375 students for this honor and this year we are recognizing 1800 for this same honor! Along the same lines, last year we had three (3) schools break 100 and this year we have thirteen (13)! As you well know, the rubber hits the road in our classrooms so our teachers, staff, kids, and community sure are doing a great job! Keep up the great work!
I am very thankful to be able to let you know that I will continue to serve as superintendent for another four years. Last week our Board unanimously approved a contract extension through June 2012. We are a district on the move - like a snowball going down a hill - but we have just begun! We will continue to move in a positive direction and we will bring all schools to 100 and all students to proficiency!
Also, as you may or may not know, last Monday our dog Sam had to have surgery on his back because his back legs became paralyzed due to disc problems. He is now resting at home, but his back legs are still paralyzed. The vet says that this is pretty normal and he is optimistic that Sam will walk again. His recovery period is about six weeks. Sam talks more about this in his column today.
My hope is that you and your families had a good Thanksgiving. We only have three weeks before winter break, so this is a time to really make sure our kids are buckled down and working hard to complete first semester. There is a lot going on but we must maintain our focus on continuing to raise achievement.
