Welcome to the 2015-2016 school year!
At least once every other week, I will be posting information on my new blog to highlight some of the incredible programs and incredible individuals who represent our school community. I will also share important announcements in an effort to keep everyone connected to this amazing school district. I welcome any feedback or recommendations, and can be reached easily via email (my address can be found on the right hand side of the web page). Just click, write and send.
Stars of the Week
Parker C. is a fourth grade student in Mrs. O's class at Metcalf Elementary School. I met Parker last year and we talked about his desire to read faster. He set a rigorous goal for himself to reach the 120 words per minute level, and he worked so hard all year to reach his goal. Parker kept track of his progress with the help of his third grade teacher and at the end of the year he sent me the nicest letter. Filled with pride, he met his goal! What a great example of the Growth Mindset. I am so proud of you, Parker, for putting your mind and effort toward something important and modeling what all good learners should aspire to be. Thank you for being a great representative for our schools!
As you know, we opened the new school year on Monday, August 24th with a full faculty and staff orientation. Several recognitions were announced, including the 2015 District Teacher of the Year - Mrs. Sharon LaFrenaye. Mrs. LaFrenaye is our Metcalf art teacher who is described as compassionate with an unwavering commitment to positivity. Her classroom is a special place where all children are inspired to reach their highest potential. Sharon is an outstanding representative of the many caring and devoted teachers who serve in our district. Congratulations and thank you, Mrs. LaFrenaye for all you do!
A copy of the entire surprise announcement can be found on the right hand side of my web page.
Other Announcements
Thank you to everyone for helping to make our opening the smoothest I have experienced in my 26 years in education. I have visited every building multiple times, and I continue to be impressed!
Over the summer, the district had several major projects to complete, including new security construction and safety camera installation at every building and the removal and replacement of the tennis courts at the Junior-Senior High School. It is incredible to think of how much was accomplished in such a short period of time. We are finalizing the last elements of the safety project this week and our brand new tennis courts will be ready for action in the next couple of weeks. Thank you to our School Committee and our communities for their ongoing commitment to our schools.
Finally, I am so excited to begin our work defined by the new 5-year district strategic plan. There are many individuals, representing all facets of the organization, who committed their time over the course of the entire 2014-15 school year to create a comprehensive plan that will help to build on the many successes we have already achieved in Exeter-West Greenwich. Opening up additional modes of communication and increasing opportunities for recognizing outstanding individuals in our school system is just one of the many action steps that are highlighted in the plan.
I hope that this school year continues to be great for all of you. Have an enjoyable long Labor Day weekend and check back for a new post on September 18th.
