March 10, 2010
I hope this message finds you enjoying the weather we are experiencing. We certainly have had our share of winter weather the past couple of months. I know I am really looking forward to the spring weather.
First, I would like to congratulate the coaches and players of our boy’s basketball team on being sectional tournament champions. Good luck in the district tournament!
As a result of the winter weather I mentioned earlier, our district has closed for inclement weather for a total of (8) eight days. As in past years, the Ohio Department of Education gives us (5) five calamity days, thus our district will have to make up (3) three school days. Currently we are planning to make up those days on the following dates: May 28th, June 1st and June 2nd.
It should be noted that if we miss more days due to inclement weather, we will be required to make up additional days this school year.
I would like to move to the topic of student achievement and instructional strategies. As you know, our teachers and administrators have been working this year on improving our instructional strategies and aligning them with research-based best practices. Our staff is very positive about this process and feels the end result will be increased student achievement. Hopefully this initiative will translate into better test results for our students.
Speaking of test results, I want to take this opportunity to remind each of you that the state testing is approaching very soon. The 10th grade Ohio Graduation Tests will be given to students starting the week of March 15th. In addition, the Ohio Achievement Assessments will be given beginning the week of April 19th for grades 3 thru 8. It is very important that our students do their very best on the state assessments and we can use your help. If you would like to help your student(s) prepare for the tests, please contact your child’s teacher or principal as they can provide you with materials to utilize with your child. During the week of testing you can help your child by making sure they eat well, get plenty of rest at night and drink plenty of fluids. Again, if you want more information contact the school.
Earlier in the school year I have provided you with information that Manchester Local School District and Adams County/Ohio Valley School District were working together to explore the concept of creating a Joint Vocational School District in Adams County. Over the past several months both districts have continued to work together with the Ohio Department of Education to create the Joint Vocational School District. Currently, we are in the process of submitting a plan to Ohio Department of Education for approval by the State Board of Education. Later this spring the district will be holding meetings with the community to explain the details of the Joint Vocational School District.
In closing, I want to extend an invitation to parents and community members to visit or contact our schools if you have questions or want more information.
Robert C. Ralstin
3/11/2010