Mission Statement:

Vision:

Values:

1. "Enculturating the Young into a Social and Political Democracy."
   More simply stated, the first principle is preparing students for responsible participation in democracy through education. Children are not born with the skills or knowledge required for effective participation in a free society. These skills must be learned, practiced and nurtured. 
   
   
2. "Equal Access to Knowledge for All Students."
   The key word in this phrase is ALL. We welcome all students. Thomas Jefferson, our third president, expressed it this way: "The purpose of public education is twofold: first, to prepare all individuals for citizenship by developing within them the capacity for full and intelligent participation in the process of deliberation necessary for self rule; and second, to identify and develop responsible leadership from the talents and abilities of individuals rather than from family or group privilege, economic wealth, religion or race."
   
   
3. "Nurturing Pedagogy." 
   This principle defines the human connection between student and teacher. It is the promotion of a caring and meaningful relationship between teacher and student. Young people need the support of appropriate adult relationships. They need a role model that teaches responsibility, dependability and other characteristics vital for successful adulthood. Teachers can and do play an important role in the modeling of character.
   
   
4. "Stewardship of the Schools Within an Educative Community."
   All members of the educational family (patrons, parents, students, teachers, administrators and staff) have a responsibility or ownership of the educational programs. In order to be successful, especially as we face current issues, we must act collectively and as a whole; there can be no "they"; there can be no separation between the people and public schools, between teachers and staff and administration--it must be "we." We must see ourselves as part of the whole, serving the needs of all children.

WHAT PARENTS CAN DO TO HELP

Often, parents ask how they can best help their child succeed in school. Research indicates that a key factor in children's success in school is their parents' attitude toward education. If you're looking for a few suggestions, might we suggest the following:

1. Send your child to school daily, on-time, rested, fed and dressed for the weather.
2. Assist your child with homework by providing a place to study and encouraging him/her to complete homework assignments soon after school.
3. Review your child's work, homework and progress on a regular basis.
4. Communicate with the teacher so that your child's needs can be met through school and home cooperation.
5. Read the memos and newsletters that are sent by the school so that you can be aware of the events that are occurring at the school.
6. Verbally praise teachers and school staff for their extra efforts when your child is around and can hear your positive remarks.
7. When possible, plan vacations, doctors appointments, etc. when school is not in session.
8. Read to or with your child often, even every day.
9. Join and support the Parent Teacher Association.