Dear Stafford Parents:

As we prepare for a new school year I am excited at the new initiatives that we will be starting.

Over the summer, Stafford received the EETT Continuation Grant for $47,500.00. This money will provide additional technology training hardware and software for Stafford students and staff members. The technology will continue to focus in on reading and math making the instruction more individualized and exciting for the students.

I am also pleased to announce six new staff members. Meghan Flanagan-grade K/1, David Snyter-grade 1, Katherine Matia-Reading Tutor, Michelle Young-grade 5, Nancy Tench-Office Clerk, and Barbara Le Vert-Lunchroom Monitor. They are all very excited to be working at Stafford and bring with themselves a wealth of knowledge to help the students.

This year we will have new textbooks for all Stafford students in Language Arts and Math. The district has spent over $500,000.00 in these two areas for new textbooks. I ask that all parents encourage their child to properly care for these books. Students will also have new social studies maps and materials. In addition we have six classrooms of new furniture, a full time reading tutor and a transitional K/1 classroom. All of the initiatives and materials were possible due to the community support you showed us last year.

Stafford PTO will be revitalized this year. Our new president, Barbara Le Vert, looks forward to meeting you. The first PTO meeting is September 8, 2004 at 6:30 p.m. in conjunction with Open House. Please mark your calendar for this important date.

I am looking forward to a great school year and I know with your continued support Stafford students will soar to meet their full potential.