June 6, 2005

Dear Students, Staff and Families:

As we approach the last three weeks of the school year it is our expectation that students will continue to remain focused on their studies. The last few days of classes are vital to academic success. The high school regent and final exam period will begin in a week. Exam schedules are provided to students with special times for regent reviews. Call the main office if you have questions.

I am very proud of the effort and performance of our students in so many areas this year. The eighth graders should be very pleased with scoring the highest among all middle schools in the Capital District on the ELA 8 this year. Our district rankings in the Business Review have also continued to improve as we are ranked in the upper 15 % of Capital District schools.

On a bittersweet note we are happy for Catherine Benson, Palma Dougherty, and Sherrie Bartholomew on their retirement plans. They will be greatly missed! At our next Board of Education meeting I will be recommending new teacher appointments for these and other positions. 

The Elementary School construction project is a little ahead of schedule. We are expecting to occupy the new library and fifth grade wing prior to the New Year. Dr. O'Brien and staff will be moving to the high school this summer during the construction period. On June 20th at 8:45 AM we are holding a groundbreaking ceremony complete with "hard hats" for the kids. It is open to the public.


Sincerely,

Mark Villanti, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
895-2279

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