“One community, one goal.”
That’s the theme Superintendent Kelly Harris has chosen this year for the Leavenworth public schools.
And when speaking Friday during a convocation for district staff, Harris was clear about the goal.
“We’re going to make (Adequate Yearly Progress) as a district this year,” she said.
AYP is a measurement related to the performance of students on state assessments.
The district failed to make AYP based on the results of the last school year. But most of the individual schools within the district made AYP.
Harris also said she wants district personnel to “educate the whole child.”
The superintendent’s comments came as district employees prepare to start the new school year. Classes will begin Tuesday morning.
“Today marks a new beginning for our school district,” Harris said.
She noted a number of changes that have taken place during the last 1.5 years including the passage of a $57.8 million bond issue and school construction projects.
Harris noted the schools that made AYP last year and said the district has turned the corner.
“We overcame challenges and found success in significant ways,” she said.
She thanked employees for the work they’ve done.
“Take special care of our students and yourselves,” she said.
All district employees were invited to the annual convocation. Communications
Director Catey Edwards said between 500 and 600 people usually attend the event.
The school year is getting off to a later than usual to allow staff time to get buildings ready following construction work.
Also during the convocation, Human Resources Director Amy Sloan recognized employees who’ve been with the district for 10, 20, 25, 30 and 35 years.
Ruth Striggow, co-president of the Leavenworth chapter of the National Education Association, also spoke during the event.
