Dear Parents and Students,
Although the last few days have been so hot and humid it feels like we are still in the peak of summer, the weather forecast for the weekend has begun to talk about evening temperatures in the mid to upper 50’s. So it is almost possible to believe that school begins in just a week! Across the district the staff, teachers, and administrators have been preparing for arrival of all of our students, but especially for the class of 2018 and the class of 2030 – our most senior and just beginning students.
The custodial and maintenance staff have been working diligently to get buildings ready for opening day – their tireless efforts are clearly visible in my touring of the buildings this week. Earlier this week I met with all of the principals, curriculum leaders, and special education coordinators to discuss the draft of the goals that will focus our work throughout the year. Each administrator was energized from our time together and left eager to take on the challenges of the 2017 – 2018 school year goals. The final goals will be shared on our website once the School Committee has approved them. Yesterday I met with 20 new staff members who are thrilled to be joining the Groton-Dunstable Regional School District. As I welcomed them to the district I shared that it was hard to believe that it was nearly 27 years ago that I was a new teacher, as it sometimes seems like yesterday.
While I have gotten the opportunity to talk to a number of community members, during the month of September my focus will be on meeting with parents, teachers, and students. Here are just a few of the events I will be attending:
- Sept. 14 Middle School Back-to-School Night
- Sept. 15 Florence Roche Back to School Party
- Sept. 23 Grotonfest (see me at the FR PTO booth and the G-D At Play booth)
- Sept. 27 Boutwell Back to School Night
- Sept. 27 Swallow Union Open House
- Sept. 28 High School Back to School Night
- Sept. 28 Pages for Peace Dinner
I hope that many of you will attend these events and allow me the opportunity to introduce myself and to chat with you about the district and the up-coming school year. In addition, an online survey will be sent home to all families in mid-September which will allow you to share your thoughts regarding the strengths and challenges of the district and any other community information you believe that will be of assistance to me as I “listen and learn†in order to be more effective in my role as your superintendent.
I hope you will all enjoy the last weekend of summer and I look forward to an excellent school year!
Best regards,
Laura
Laura S. Chesson, Ed. D.
Superintendent of Schools