We hope that everyone had a relaxing
and enjoyable summer. As your family prepares to embark upon a new
school year, we would like to extend a heartfelt welcome back.
The
beginning of the school year marks another milestone for all families,
including ours. Our third of four children, Anna, will be experiencing
her last first day of high school. In our house the first day means we
have completed photos on the front porch and multiple runs to the store
for school supplies and possibly some new shoes. As a member of the 2015
senior class for Puyallup High School, our daughter will have a year
filled with new challenges, fun, highlights, and great memories only to
be trumped by graduation day in June.
I
can’t help but think back on our daughter’s previous 12 years of first
days of school and the exceptional educational journey she has been on.
My reflections rebound to all of the people who have reached into our
daughter’s life over the years. I remember the teachers and
administrators who have guided, corrected, and encouraged her to build a
vibrant story of success — a story that will be uniquely created and
played out in the lives of 20,000 other students in our district. These
are stories that are renewed and reignited on the first day of school.
As
we enter into the 2014-15 school year, “responsiveness” and “choice”
will continue to be hallmarks of the Puyallup School District’s
tradition of excellence. This year we are extremely excited about
full-day kindergarten for ALL kindergarten-aged students. Sixty-seven
classrooms will provide a rich, multifaceted educational experience for
our youngest of learners. However, investing in our students’ success
doesn’t stop with kindergarten. Across our district we continue to
explore new opportunities for academic rigor in programs at all grade
levels. Expanding academic options for highly capable students, opening
doors for returning dropouts, and enhancing the life skills of our
students with special needs are just a few offerings that will unfold as
this year’s stories of achievement.
So
whether this year marks your family’s very first first day or the last
in the high school career, to all of our parents, students, staff, and
community members, welcome back! As a true community partnership, we all
have an important role to play in the success of our students. As a
member of the school board, I look forward to working closely with you
throughout the school year to ensure that this is an exciting,
fulfilling, and rewarding year for all of our students.
Chris Ihrig, President
Puyallup School Board