August 24, 2005
Schools Chief Jack O'Connell Releases
Back-to-School Message for Educators
Streaming video of message available on California Department of Education Web site
SACRAMENTO — State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell today issued the following message to teachers, school administrators, and other education officials who are preparing to welcome students back to school for the fall term:
"I'm Jack O'Connell, state superintendent of public instruction. Many California schools operate year-round, but since Labor Day signals the start of the traditional school year, I want to take this opportunity to welcome you all back to school.
"As parents and students gear up for the 2005-06 school year, I'm happy to say there's reason for optimism about the way our schools are heading. Student achievement is improving. The past five years of test score data clearly show that a focus on high standards and expectations is working to help students succeed.
"Public support for our schools is evident from the thousands of new and modernized classrooms being built all over California. And I'm proud to see our education community unified in the effort to improve public education.
"You've done a tremendous amount of work over the past five years to imbed high standards and accountability in all California classrooms. Now the challenge is to stay focused on our standards, and particularly on closing the pernicious achievement gap that still leaves far too many students falling behind. There's much work ahead of us. We must prepare students to higher levels than ever before if they are to succeed in the demanding global economy of today and tomorrow.
"So as we head into the fall quarter, I want to thank all of our hard-working teachers, administrators, para-educators, and involved parents for your efforts on behalf of California's students.
"I know we're asking a lot of our schools and school staff at a time when budgets are stretched thin. But I'm confident that by focusing first and foremost on improving student achievement — by holding all students to the same high standards — we'll continue to improve throughout this school year. Welcome back to school."
