We have had a fabulous opening to the 08-09 school year.  Thank you to our families and community members for preparing your children for the opening of school.  Your children came to school happy, healthy, and ready to learn.  Congratulations to all staff, students and parents – our API went up to 883 (800 is proficient)!

The fresh fall season is upon us once again.  I love this time of year, the beginning of holiday activities and family gatherings.  The classes are busy focusing on the state standards to continue our quest for academic excellence for all children.  Our expectations are for every child to give their personal best to their studies and social interactions.  We believe all children can be anything they want to be - believing is key.  The commitment and support for excellence between home and school will produce outstanding results for our students. We look forward to fostering that relationship throughout the school year.

We have a new Standards-Based Report Card that has a completely different format for reporting grades than the report cards of the past.  The grades that will be given match the levels of proficiency reported on the state tests (CST’s) given to grades 2-5.  For our new families the proficiency levels are as follows: A = Advanced (above grade level standards); P = Proficient (meets grade level standards); B = Basic (below grade level standards); BB = Below Basic (2 levels below grade level); FBB = Far Below Basic (three levels below grade level requirements).  Each grade level will be hosting an SBRC parent meeting to help facilitate your understanding of the new reporting system.  These meetings will take place prior to our conference dates in November. Be looking for the informational flyer.

I’d like to share four tips for parents and family members to encourage student success all year long: 1) Create a safe space to communicate by letting your child know you are always available to discuss concerns and celebrations. 2) Create an environment at home that models a love of learning. For example students who have parents who read are more likely to read themselves. 3) Provide your child with all the tools he/she needs to stay organized throughout the year. 4) Provide academic support by being involved in your child’s education.  If your schedule is too busy, find out if there are tutoring opportunities available near your home.  Together we can truly make a difference in the lives of our children.  Be pro-active and success will follow.

Volunteers needed for after school support in ensuring the students exit the school safely every day, Cycling Club and Running Club.  Please let the office know if you are available or check out our web site at sandi.net/sandburg for contact names for these activities and more.

From my Heart with Sandburg Tiger Pride!

Laurie