From the Superintendent: Welcome, Albany Families

September 2011

To the Albany Community:

On behalf of the and our outstanding staff, I welcome you to the 2011-12 school year. is committed to providing excellence in public education and every student with a high quality educational experience.

I am honored to serve as superintendent of a district that places such a high value on learning and achievement.  Our mission is to empower all students to achieve their fullest potential as productive citizens. We believe that all students can develop a deep understanding of essential knowledge and skills, apply their learning, produce quality work, think critically, and become contributing members of society. When a student walks across the stage at graduation, we will have provided them the tools to be successful in whatever they choose to do –whether it be college, technical school, or the work world.

Each Albany student is a valued individual with unique physical, social, and emotional needs. While our STAR scores clearly demonstrate that our students are learning, we also provide opportunities for students to participate in afterschool activities, clubs and sports. The district is also committed to providing students with social and emotional support via our integrated mental health program.

The California budget crisis continues. It has created challenges for public schools throughout the State. Thanks to the outstanding fiscal management by the Board of Education, we continue to offer our students high quality programs. State revenue is not enough to provide the comprehensive education that Albany values and students deserve. The additional financial support, generated from our parcel taxes, is an essential component for our continued success.

There is a strong partnership between the district, parents and community. We are extremely fortunate to receive support from SchoolCare, Albany Music Fund, Albany Education Foundation and PAHS (Promoting Albany High Sports). They provide invaluable resources for our students, staff, and schools. Our PTA’s provide each school site with additional support and funding. The success of these organizations is dependent on the time and resources of parents and community members. I strongly encourage you to get involved.

Communication is a key element of student success. We are committed to providing you with timely and useful information regarding your student, our schools and district. School and district websites are excellent sources of information. Gain access to your student’s teacher by signing up for the Aeries parent portal and join one of the many school and district e-newsletters to keep informed throughout the year.

I look forward to meeting you during the coming year at one of our schools or in the community. If you see me at a school or in the community, please share your thoughts about the district and the education that we are providing.

Sincerely,

Superintendent