From the Principal

November 18, 2009


Dear Members of the Pine Glen Community,

After successfully completing the first marking period, it has given me reason to reflect upon the many accomplishments we have achieved, in these three months at Pine Glen School. We as a community should all take pride in the successful implementation of a new schedule. This schedule has allowed us to not only maximize student time on learning but increase it. In addition, we have drastically reduced the interruptions to instruction. Likewise, we have become a data driven school where bi-weekly grade level teams have met with myself and the reading specialists to look at data and make sure students are receiving appropriate instruction at his or her level. In addition, I have had the great opportunity to meet with several parents with teachers to discuss students and develop immediate plans to introduce interventions. Our goal of increasing literacy and teacher collaboration is not just a goal. It has become part of our culture. We have recently added several non-fiction books to our literacy closet collection. The Bruins' ticket fundraiser will also add a considerable amount of books too. Of course we have also had our fun. We have had some wonderful after school events such as the Ice-Cream Social and Halloween Dance. One of my favorite aspects of my position is the ability to be in many classrooms throughout the day. As I walk through classrooms, I have noticed great changes. I see high levels of student engagement and teachers asking critical thinking questions to students. Students are expressing themselves and working together as leaders. I am so proud of each of your children and the teachers at Pine Glen. There is nothing more rewarding then seeing a child expand upon the way she or he looks at the world, problem solve a math equation, or read a book that opens up a new world to them. I feel so fortunate to have the opportunity to be part of the intellectual growth of the students at Pine Glen.

I am sure parents are eager to meet with teachers and hear about their children’s progress. Due to some of the systematic changes this year, not only at Pine Glen but throughout the district, there may be questions that arise in these conversations. Please know that if you have questions, you can contact me by phone or set up a meeting to talk in person.

We have so much to be thankful for this holiday season. Thank you for your continued support and investment in education.

Sincerely,

John Lyons
Principal
Pine Glen School