Welcome back, Jaguars to the start of the 2009 school year. I am very excited to tell you about various programs and projects that are sure to make your experience at El Sereno Middle School a success.

El Sereno Middle School is completing a 2.5 million dollar modernization project to improve and up-grade our school facilities. You will notice many improvements to our campus. Walk around and take note of the following: 1) the entire school has been repaved and lines painted in the PE areas; 2) four science classrooms have been up-graded to promote science instruction, accommodate laboratory experiments and provide safety for students. This includes new cabinets, counters and water wash basins; 3) we added a new shade shelter outside the lunch area to provide our students protection from the rain and heat of the sun; 4) we are completing work of a “state of the art” computer classroom and lab in the old auto shop building (shop 3); and finally, 5) a rod-iron security fence was installed along the upper field perimeter to increase campus safety.

This year we will implement a 7 period day bell schedule to provide students the opportunity to take elective classes and to facilitate the implementation the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. The IB program is a course of study designed to prepare and teach our students to become responsible, aware and independent thinkers ready to compete in a changing world. The curriculum will offer instruction in two languages (Spanish and Mandarin), Math, Science, Physical Education, Humanities, Technology and the Arts.

To continue our efforts and commitment to improve student achievement we are providing a “binder and dividers” to every student and requiring them to bring it to school everyday. All students will be taught AVID strategies and encouraged to use and take Cornell notes in all classes. Jaguars are expected to keep all class work organized in their binders to make study at home more productive. As a result of our collaboration with Computers for Youth, every 6th and 7th grade student will be eligible to receive a free computer to take home. This will certainly allow students to improve their technology skills and academic skills. This partnership with Computers for Youth includes training for parents to assist their child at home with homework assignments.

Our dedicated teachers have devoted 3 days of Professional Development to prepare for the beginning of the 2009-2010 school year. They were trained in various teaching strategies to assist in the development of rigorous lessons to improve student learning.

Everyone is excited with the results of our test scores. We have improved in every area. This improvement demonstrates your ability to improve. This year I expect each of you to work even harder to reach your true potential. I know you can do it and I will not settle for less. Jaguars, remember, a teacher’s job is to teach and your job is to learn. I look forward to a successful academic year and truly believe that you will do your best to excel at school and make El Sereno Middle School students the pride our community.