Why we LOVE East Midvale

I just finished writing the article for my school newsletter this month. Although it is a lot of work and rather stressful, and is the cause for my extreme Diet Pepsi addiction, I love my school. I especially love the fact that my three little darlings go there with me everyday! Nothing beats attending school with your kids. I decided to do a top ten list about the best things at East Midvale. Here is my article:

Dear Parents,

I was recently asked by someone, “What is the best thing about East Midvale Elementary?” It didn’t take me long to respond because there are so many wonderful things happening at our school. I would like to take a moment to share with you “The 10 Best things about East Midvale Elementary”

1. Students.--We have a diverse group of students who are excited about learning. This year our student count has increased by 80 students!
2. Parents -- We have parents who are involved in their child’s education. They take an active role in helping them succeed.
3. Teachers -- We have teachers who truly care about each and every student. They spend countless hours making sure that their lessons meet the unique needs and learning styles of every student.
4. Paraprofessionals -- Many paraprofessionals come to work each day to provide additional support to the students and teachers. They truly care about each and every student and this is evident in seeing the dedication they give to their job.
5. Specialists --We are lucky to have many “specialist teachers” who work with classroom teachers and students. They provide a lot of help and support.
6. Student Recognition -- We have many programs that recognize students. Some include Student of the Month, YPP Store, Mrs. Sansom’s 200 Club, and various grade level specific recognition programs as well. Our students will be collecting charms again this year. Our first attendance dog-tag award will be handed out soon!
7. Family Involvement-- We will have family fun nights this year centered on literacy, math, and diversity. We encourage families to come to the school and enjoy spending time together while learning.
8. Additional Programs -- Being a Title One school, we are able to provide a variety of intervention and extension programs for all students. Some of these programs include Early Steps, Next Steps, and SOAR tutoring groups, Yearly Progress Pro (YPP), Kool Kat computer lab. Bully Blockers, Mobile computer Labs, Mighty Authors and many more!
9. Safe School -- Teachers and administration work hard to ensure that every student feels safe at school. Students participate weekly in a Bully Blocker’s program to teach them important skills. Our school-wide discipline program helps to provide consistency throughout the school.
10. Learning—Wherever you go within East Midvale Elementary you will find students learning. I am amazed each day as I wander throughout classrooms at the quality of work that our students are completing. I love the excitement of children learning new things.

As you can see, it is not hard to list the top 10 things about East Midvale Elementary. My hope is that we can continue to work together to ensure the success of every student. As our mission statement reads, the mission of East Midvale Elementary is to create a community of learners by providing quality research based instruction to every student. Looking at the above 10 things, we are well on our way of creating this community of learners.

Respectfully,

Sally Sansom
Principal