August has arrived and with it come thoughts of a new school year. I am excited and hope you and your children are too! School begins on August 26 for all students and here are some of the things we are planning in 2019-2020.

Safety continues to be our #1 focus. We know that if our students do not feel safe, they cannot learn. As we think about safety in our schools, we focus upon the physical features of our buildings as well as the social and emotional health of our students. In addition to safety upgrades in our buildings, such as surveillance cameras and entrance protocols, we are implementing “wellness” programming in the elementary schools, k-5. This programming will focus on physical health, social interactions, and emotional well-being. Students will participate in this programming on a rotational basis as part of their special area subjects. I look forward to feedback on the learning experiences of our students in this course.

And speaking of safety, the District has employed a Safety Supervisor who will begin work this month. Mr. Dean Miller will oversee see preparedness, response, and recovery protocols and procedures district-wide. He will also facilitate learning about situational awareness and trauma and how we can most effectively respond in support of healthy and empowering learning experiences. 

As we advance the District’s mission in the coming year, we will “cultivate inclusive communities of learners empowered to grow intellectually, socially, and emotionally.” Our focus on social and emotional health is significant in this effort, as will be the increased access to modern resources as part of the 1:1 initiative at the secondary level. Additionally, we realize that strong, positive relationships are imperative. Our community of educators, no matter their role in PVSD, will continue to build powerful relationships with students and families, district-wide. I am excited to realize the new and different ways our students will engage in their school experience during the upcoming year.

I wish you and your child a smooth start to the new school year and a rewarding 2019-2020 experience. Do not hesitate to reach out with questions or comments.