Summer is nearly over. This summer Stockbridge Valley School has been undergoing a face lift. The custodial staff has been busy getting our school ready for the return of students. The office staff has been busy registering students, updating student information and preparing for the new school year. These dedicated people provide the behind the scenes work that allows students to return to a clean, orderly school.  I would like to thank all staff for their efforts in getting our school ready for opening day.

There are two additions to our staff this year. Students will recognize a new Music teacher, Mrs. Meyer. She will be teaching some Music classes and Band at Stockbridge. Another new staff member is Mrs. Colburn, the High School ELA teacher. They are both welcome additions to the Stockbridge Valley School family.

Last year the school community examined the transition from elementary school to high school. New seventh graders find the freedom and expectations overwhelming. In an attempt to alleviate some of the anxiety of the students, several programs were initiated.

To address this, sixth grade students participated in shadowing 7^th grade students. Seventh grade students took part in panels that answered 6^th grade student questions. This year we will add to these efforts by implementing a formal student mentoring program. All these efforts combined with the cooperation of the staff should make the transition to high school easier.

The elementary staff will continue to hold Friday Morning Programs monthly. All parents are invited to attend the program in the auditorium at 9:00 am on specific Fridays of the month.  The dates will be on the school calendar and on the webpage.  You will be notified if your child will be receiving an award. Your child will not know that they will be receiving an award, so please don’t tell them. We look forward to seeing all parents this year.

I am looking forward to seeing students on the first day of school, Tuesday, September 7, 2010. Enjoy the rest of the summer.