As always seems the case, the summer has gone very quickly and school will begin in less than a month. The first full school day of instruction is Tuesday, September 5. Other important news:

Engadine Schools continues to show positive MEAP scores in most core areas. An ongoing effort continues in grades kindergarten through 12 to align and adapt our curricula in reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies. Alignment with state-mandated standards and Grade Level Content Expectations (GLCE's) is in process. We anticipate fluctuations in student MEAP performance scores as we continue our efforts. A special recognition is to be afforded all our teachers, as they have consistently supported changes in curricula, instruction, and responded to the growing demands from the state and federal government for increased educational accountability.

This year the elementary school will fully implement the Reading First curriculum, a comprehensive researched-based phonics-oriented

reading, writing, and spelling program, from grades kindergarten through six. Upper elementary teachers will supplement their mathematics instruction with content specific to learning pre-algebraic skills in anticipation of all eighth grade students going into algebra in the 2007-2008 school year. Seventh and eighth graders this year will participate in an expanded pre-algebra program. It is also anticipated that our secondary science and English programs will be modified.

Reminder to all secondary English students: You only have a month to complete your optional summer reading program for Mr. Vincent, so let's get reading!

Angie McArthur, presently our business administrator, will, in addition, assume the elementary coordinator position. She will be the primary administrator for the elementary school with overview by the superintendent. I feel this administrative arrangement will prove effective and efficient.

Our bus fleet is now modernized with the purchase of two new buses and the "new" bus garage is operational. We appreciate all our constituents for their continued support, especially with the unanimous passing of the bus bond.

Important dates:

+ August 7 Varsity/JV Football practice begins.

+ August 14 Varsity/JV Girls Basketball practice begins.

+ High School course drop and adds August 25 to 31 (tentative dates).

+ August 30 Staff in-service day, no students.

+ September 5 First full day of instruction for all students.

We look forward to another positive school year. Our goal is to work cooperatively with all parents to make their student's learning at Engadine a beneficial experience.

If you have inquiries about Engadine Schools, please feel free to contact us at (906) 477-6313.

Enjoy your summer.