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15 August 2011
Dear Nederland Elementary Community,
Welcome to a new school year! I’m excited about the opportunity to be the principal of Nederland Elementary School. My family and I have really felt welcomed by the staff, parents, and community. Thank you!
Our school leadership team met during the first week of August and received our 2010-2011 CSAP, DRA2, and climate data. This data reflects a lot of hard work and intentional efforts on the part of our staff, students, and community. Let me share some highlights:
· In reading, the percentage of proficient and advanced students is at a three-year high and our 4th grade median growth levels were 6 points above the district average.
· In math, the percentage of proficient and advanced students is also at a three-year-high and our 5th grade median growth levels were 5.5 points above the district average.
· In writing, the percentage of proficient and advanced students is also at a three-year high.
· In science, the percentage of proficient and advanced students is at an all-time high.
· A majority of grade levels had at least 80% of their students meeting DRA2 targets.
· Our building climate survey also indicated that students feel that they can communicate instances of bullying to an adult at school.
Of course, data also sheds light on opportunities for growth. On August 10th and 11th, our staff met to discern what worked last year, so that we can sustain this momentum. We also addressed areas of need and will be identifying best practices in instruction and effective interventions throughout the month of September. Once our staff crafts a strategic plan, I will make sure to identify these “opportunities for growth” and communicate our plan to address them.
On another note, please know that Wild Bear will be providing child care after school on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Wild Bear is also offering child care during our Wednesday late starts. Please call Jill Dreeves, the director of Wild Bear at 303-258-0495. Jill is also soliciting input regarding child care needs on Monday and Friday evenings, as she may be able to present offerings if there is enough interest. Dawn Baumhover at the Community Center and I have also met and there will be options for after school activities for our children this year. Please check the Nederland Community Center website at www.nederlandcommunitycenter.org or call 303-258-9721 for offerings.
I look forward to getting to know this community, parents of students, and staff members. Most importantly, I am looking forward to getting to know Nederland Elementary students. Please take an opportunity to introduce yourself to me at our PTA Back-to-School Event at the Carousel of Happiness on Sunday, August 21st from 2:00-4:00.
Sincerely,
Jeff Miller
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