School Board Update January 2, 2008

Dear Neighbors,

Happy New Year!

The School Board is entering a very exciting phase of our work to create schools of excellence and equity for the future of our city. 

During the last two years, we organized a broad and philosophical conversation throughout the city about our current situation, and vision for greater success for every child.  Several months ago, the Board determined that it was most interested in exploring “choice” options for creating greater equality in the District, and we hired a market survey firm, Fifth Element, to gather information from the public about their dreams, values, and hopes for public schools. 

Next Tuesday, January 8^th, at 7 p.m. at the high school, we will get a comprehensive report on the results of the parent phone surveys and focus groups, and online polls of teachers and community members.  The Board also will meet for a special work session to finalize the 2008-9 budget we send to the voters -- and to push forward with decision-making on equity and excellence changes -- on Tuesday, January 15^th, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at Hunt Middle School.  In between those important and exciting meetings, there is a budget hearing, sessions of the finance, curriculum, and policy and advocacy committees, plus lots of time to speak with our neighbors about the future via e-mail, phone, and grocery store run-ins.  All these meeting times and agendas are listed online at www.bsdvt.org . 

I am so optimistic right now about the future of our city schools, especially because diverse community voices are audible in all of our conversations about the future.  I think you will soon see the benefits of your participation, idealism, and belief in the value of excellent and equitable public education for all our children.

Yours with great hopes for 2008,

Amy Werbel
Ward 5 School Commissioner
awerbel@bsdvt.org
www.amywerbel.info