Reflections and Appreciation -
2009-10 School Year
Greetings:
It seems like the first day of school was just the other day; then from other perspectives, it seems much, much longer. In education, it is important to reflect on practice; I would like to reflect on this past year of accomplishments and disappointments
It has been a very productive year; teachers have implemented a new science curriculum, worked on many committees from researching student achievement to writing curriculum; overall student achievement is rising; support staff have improved the condition of our schools and are making plans for more healthy lunches; every member of our staffs are busy helping our students achieve and succeed. There are many more accomplishments and successes attributed to your hard work, but not enough space to list them.
On behalf of the entire school community, I thank each of you for your work this year, that extra effort to help a student or colleague achieve was noticed. Your efforts are recognized when you welcome someone on our school grounds or greet them politely on the phone; make that special entree; take extra efforts to make a room clean; provide that extra attention to a student or call home to share a success story. Your work is important. We thank you for all the work you do throughout the year to provide a conducive learning environment for our students.
I am disappointed and regret having to sign contracts with "…pending the outcome of negotiations" for both professional and support staff and others that indicate a "zero" increase reflective of the difficult economic times. Due to declining enrollments our staffing has been reduced by 18 FTE positions. Outstanding contracts will be distributed on June16.
I am sure when negotiating teams meet the focus is an equitable agreement. Scheduling of negotiations meetings began in August 2009. The mediator will be meeting with the professional agreement teams on July 28. We appreciate your patience as equitable agreements are eventually worked out.
As you know, three of thirteen budgets did not pass on Town Meeting Day. Holland did finally pass their school budget on June 3 and the North Country Union High School's third budget vote passed on June 15th. Coventry's fourth vote will be June 30th. Coventry's board has worked very hard to present a budget that continues a tradition of excellent student programs. I am requesting that you encourage friends and neighbors to support this budget. Please remember to vote yourself.
Once ballots are available at your local Town Clerk's Office you may vote. Coventry's ballots should be available. These votes are vital to the future of our students.
Enjoy the summer break and take time to reflect on your work and how you may improve your practice. For those who have the summer break, we look forward to welcoming you back on August 24. To all year round staff, enjoy a safe and refreshing summer.
Thank you again for the services you provide to our students and our community.
June 10, 2010
