I am very excited about being the superintendent of Mark West Union School District and working with the dedicated staff, supportive school board and involved parents. Twenty of my thirty years have been spent working at the elementary level. I am committed to public education and now have the opportunity to redirect my expertise to focus at the elementary level.

The District will continue to emphasize rigorous and relevant curriculum, outstanding teaching, and personal caring for each child. Our “standards-based education” focuses on defined expectations at each grade level in each subject area. By defining clear standards, your child’s teacher, your child, and you will know what is expected, and we can all work together to meet these goals. When high standards are combined with genuine interest in each student, and a creative teacher, we build a formula for success.

One of the district’s goals this school year is to increase our student average daily attendance, also known as ADA. The District wants to reduce students' absences that are not medical or family emergencies. Our goal is to increase student daily attendance as a method to offset the declining enrollment and bring in more state revenue. Our target for 2005-06 is to increase student average daily attendance (ADA) by 1%, thereby increasing our general fund budget by $99,000. The District does not receive funding for any day of absence unless your child is on an Independent Study contract for five (5) or more days.

Each day your child attends school the District receives approximately $40. Having your child attend school is important for their education as they are receiving the teaching and are learning at school. The revenue generated by each day your child attends school results in more money for the district and less money our district will have to reduce the budget. We urge parents and students to continue to make attendance a high priority.

Our District’s bond measure is busy at work at San Miguel and Mark West Schools. Buildings have been torn down, new foundations poured, parking lots paved and playground equipment installed. We have faced several challenges at both sites. Thanks to a dynamic construction team we have worked through the issues. We are fortunate to have two competent contracting companies working for the District that have several years of experience building schools. There will be times when staff, students, and parents will be frustrated by the inconvenience of building, similar to a home remodel. Please keep in mind that this is a temporary situation and that our schools will have beautiful buildings for years to come.

Thank you for your participation and involvement in your child’s education. The staff appreciates your commitment to the District. Education is one of the most important responsibilities of society. We take it very seriously. I am always available to you, please don’t hesitate to give me a call or come in to see me. Let’s make 2005-06 the best year ever for your child.

Sincerely,