Reflections on a Wonderful Year

With less than three weeks remaining, it’s hard to believe another school year is about to end. As I reflect back, I am proud of the hard work of staff and students and the many special events and accomplishments that make our school wonderful.

With less than three weeks remaining, it’s hard to believe another school year is about to end. As I reflect back, I am proud of the hard work of staff and students and the many special events and accomplishments that make our school wonderful.
 
In 2010/11, testing expanded to include the Measure Academic Progress (MAP), Explore Testing, Writing , Learning First, DIBELS, ACCESS, and ISAT. Along with a revised promotion policy for grades 3, 6, and 8, assessment and accountability increased dramatically. Early indicators continue to yield that Smyser is one of Chicago’s best neighborhood schools where children receive a rich and wonderful education.
 
This year our AMPS designation brought autonomy in leadership and instruction. The creation of a Smyser MAP Team; Measures of Academic Progress, RIT Goals, Norm Targets, Readiness Skills, Study Island, BDHS Professional Development Cohort, “Smyser Essentials”, “What Successful Teachers Do”, “QAR”, “Marzano 9”, LRE, and After School Programming brought about changes in teaching, learning, and assessment. Reading/language arts and math will continue to remain a priority.

Wonderful thoughts that come to mind are as follows: Our Smyser MAP Professional Development; The Smyser Gardening Club; Smyser Math Team; Joffrey Ballet Middle School Dance Club; Math and Science Night; Winter and Spring performances sponsored by Mr. Dupree and Mr. Salyers; The 20/20 reading program sponsored by Ms. Lynch; Mayor Daley’s Book Club; Record participation at Open House and Report Card Pick-up; Family Orientation; Principal for a Day; Lawyers in the Classroom Program; After-School Counts & All Stars Elite Programs; Smyser Talent Show; Girls Volleyball; Cross Country; Track & Field; Basketball; Soccer; Smyser Debate; The Smyser Student Council; The Smyser Recycling Club; The addition of high quality new staff members; The expanded use of technology across the curriculum; The Smyser Website; The Walk-A-Thon; The recognition of students through our Student of the Month Program, Science Fair, Perfect Attendance, Honor Roll, and BETA; The always popular movie nights; The New Teacher Mentoring Program; 8th Grade Chicago Trip; The wonderful student, teacher, and parent events sponsored by our PTO, LSC, NCLB, & 8th Grade committees; and much more!
 
On behalf of the entire school, I thank you for a wonderful year and look forward to many more years of success and innovative instruction. Please, continue to support our school as we seek to provide high quality and superior educational services.