Good afternoon,
Our weather in January certainly has been challenging for everyone.
I understand the difficulty of closing schools. For working parents finding childcare or caring for children while trying to work is challenging. But I am equally aware of the challenges that come when we keep schools open. Sending buses onto snowy roads and having high school drivers navigating those same snowy roads comes with its own set of problems. In addition, we must ensure that staff can get to school in a timely manner so that they will be able to greet students as they arrive.
So, as I said, winter is challenging.
The extended forecast is not encouraging. But as I have learned in my 18 years as a Superintendent, you make the best decision you can and you focus on keeping everyone safe.
Our snow days start early. Kyle Forman, our district mechanic, drives the roads – east to west and north to south. Allison Clements, our Assistant Superintendent of Business and Operations, consults with me as well. Shawn Hayward, our Director of Maintenance and Operations, keeps track of the plows and those who shovel the snow. And our transportation team – those that drive our buses – are invaluable in weather like this. All of these people are greatly appreciated.
In January, our K-8 students have been testing with our NWEA assessment. These assessments in math and reading help us both evaluate our instruction and identify how to help each student. Our teachers work with our students to help them understand how these assessments are valuable in showing the progress that each student makes. The assessments give us insight into each student and help our teachers in their grade level and department teams make sure that each student is receiving what they need to continue moving forward.
Our Fine Arts program had a chance to shine this past week. At the Michigan Music Conference, Allie Holden, our North Rockford Middle School orchestra teacher, was recognized by the Michigan Chapter of the American String Teachers Association with their Early Career Recognition Award. Mandy Scoot and Jed Scoot led several of our students in all-state choirs. Jenny Allen, our East Rockford Middle School orchestra teacher, led a session helping other teachers learn to be better orchestra teachers. In addition, we had several students selected to perform with all-state ensembles.
The Rockford Education Foundation is hosting their annual spring gala – The Taste. This event highlights the great work that the Rockford Education Foundation does as a partner with our district. If you can participate in this event on March 5th I would encourage you to make your plans now. Information can be found on the Rockford Education Foundation website: The Taste
Here’s wishing for sunshine and warmer temperatures.
Steve
Dr. Steve Matthews
Superintendent
Rockford Public Schools
