As we begin the new school year, I want to take this opportunity to thank you and celebrate our achievements from last year.
The recent district report card ranked YCS in Academic Watch; meeting two indictors and showing improvement in 17 of 26 indicators. Our student test scores showed significant improvement in reading and mathematics, especially in the elementary grades; and our attendance and graduation rates were up as well.
We can also be proud that last spring YCS moved out of Fiscal Emergency. Our new academic and fiscal standing puts our district on a solid foundation and we are ready to build on this during the upcoming school year.
I am well aware that our accomplishments in 2011 are a direct reflection on you. I thank each and every one of you for your hard work, positive attitude and, of course, your dedication to our students.
We can be proud of what we have accomplished, but never forget that we have a long way to go. You know your job and I know you will do it well. I thank you all and say to: our teachers & principals—who have one of the toughest jobs in the world—believe in yourself and believe in our children; our custodians — who keep our buildings clean and property attractive—your work instills pride in our staff, children and our community; our food service staff — who think food—because our children and staff can't think without it; our transportation workers — who get our children to and from school every day—drive safely, you carry precious cargo; our secretaries — who keep us all on track—you make the first impression, the first warm and friendly face most see when they enter any building; our educational support staff — who are the right hands of schools and teachers—our teachers and students depend on you; our building and grounds employees — who keep our buildings safe, in good repair—we know we can count on you in any emergency; our administrators and support staff — who specialize, lead and support our schools—do your piece well, work together and keep the big picture in mind.
