Hopkins School District #270

09/21/2009

By Superintendent John Schultz & Board Chair Yvonne Selcer

It is hard to believe that summer is coming to an end—families are shopping for school supplies and taking inventory of their kids' closet, noting what clothing and shoes are needed for the year . . . and likely noting a difference in the sizes that will be required! Teachers are busy preparing for the school year, as well, adding new techniques and technologies to their toolbox. New and improved programs have been developed to support achievement, and building improvements have been made to create a 21st century learning environment where our learners will thrive and achieve. The Hopkins Public Schools are, once again, prepared to provide excellence at every school, every student, every day.

The beginning of a new school year is filled with excitement, enthusiasm, and intrigue; however, something feels a little different about this year . . .

While state and national economies remain challenged, it is also important to recognize the numerous local families who have experienced job loss and/or financial challenges. The district stands ready to help those families to the best of our ability. Staff members—many of whom are experiencing the same kinds of stresses—can help families secure the necessary resources to launch a child into a healthy and successful year of achievement and fun. It is truly a time for us to help one another. Requests for help will be treated with the utmost confidence and respect.

It is also important, however, to recognize the many ways in which we each continue to be blessed. And for the district, it is defined by being part of a community that always finds ways to engage and support its citizens. We appreciate the numerous partnerships with local business and civic leaders who make the district even better as we work together to do what is best for our kids. The faith communities and non-profit organizations are incessant in providing resources and encouragement to families throughout the District. A remarkable example of this is the ResourceWest (formerly known as the Hopkins Minnetonka Family Resource Center) that sponsors the annual events to raise money for local food shelves, and collects back-to-school supplies. The need is greater this year than ever before. I hope you will join us in making a contribution.

In addition, we have great staff members who continue to be dedicated to teaching every learner of every age. We have new technologies available and an exciting curriculum, more and more of which is becoming increasingly intertwined. We have numerous teaching techniques to utilize with our changing population of learners. We are communicating and interacting more effectively with our constituents—students, staff, families, and community members, as we continue to strive for excellence every day. It is indeed a privilege to serve a community that values education, and that pulls together when times are tough.

Please take the time to visit the amazing students, staff members, buildings, and technologies in the 21st century classrooms of the Hopkins Public Schools. What you will find are true reflections of the great community in which they reside. We are, indeed, well positioned to provide a world-class education in a caring small-town atmosphere. Best wishes for a successful 2009-10 school year.