Attachment B to Rel #04-79
September 3, 2004
Dear Parents:
It's that time again when for many of you the start of a new school year is just beginning. Your children are going back to school. And so are you.
While you won't need a backpack or a supply of No. 2 pencils, you are an integral part of your child's education. You and our dedicated teachers work best as a team to ensure your children have all the necessary tools to make school a success — and fun!
It is a parent's enthusiasm that inspires children to do their best. It is a parent's involvement that is one of the biggest indicators of a child's success. And it is a parent's nurturing and guidance that allows children to develop a true love of learning.
The new academic year will bring with it many new challenges, as well as many new rewards. There will be new teachers to meet, new books to read, new friends to meet, new skills to master — and I hope that you will be able to share in these exciting times.
You can be proud of your children's progress in school. The trend in student achievement remains positive, but I know we can do better. The most recent scores on the statewide assessments were mixed and showed a slowdown in the yearly progress public schools had been making. With a renewed commitment, I am positive that we can regain the momentum to make this an exemplary school year.
As a parent of a daughter who graduated from high school last spring, I know how important — and fleeting — these years are. So I urge you to take the time from your busy schedules to become familiar with your children's school, as well as provide a homework-friendly home environment that will allow your children to excel.
Thank you for your commitment to your child's education.
Sincerely,
JACK O'CONNELL
1430 N Street
Sacramento, CA 95814