Although we have only been in school a little over two months, I am continually amazed and inspired by our school community. I see highly dedicated staff members working countless hours to provide quality learning experiences for our students. Whether they are attending district literacy and science trainings, improving their knowledge of Connect and other technologies, collaboratively creating lessons and units with their team members on Wednesday afternoons, or accessing various other professional development opportunities, I am continually impressed with the level of professionalism of our staff. I also see an involved, talented and extremely hardworking PTSA and parent community that support school efforts on a daily basis. From the AMAZING Walk-a- Thon, to fun-filled parties, to classroom volunteers, our students benefit from our strong parent-school partnership. Lastly, I am impressed at the caliber of our students. The way they are eager to share their learning with others, how they encourage fellow classmates and champion for each other, how they embrace drama and the arts, the words their teachers’ write about them for their GREAT KID certificates, and the smiles, waves and hugs I receive all show me they are truly GREAT kids. As we continue along the 2010-2011 school year, I will continue to celebrate all the wonderful things about our school as we work together to make it even better. I am SO lucky to be at Cascade Ridge!