We're looking forward to seeing you Aug. 11

I would like to take this opportunity to welcome everyone back for the start of the 2014 – 2015 school year. Although I’m sure everyone hates to see their summer vacation come to an end, there is always a certain air of excitement about the start of a new school year that you can’t help but get caught up in. It has been a busy summer for us here at the District as we work to have everything ready for Aug 11.

Superintendent Joe Quintana

On some campuses you may see a new principal or assistant principal, and on virtually every campus you’ll see new staff. Other changes are easy to see, like new roofs or air conditioning units, and revitalized cafeterias. Some changes, like improved infrastructure for technology, new lighting and improved environmental controls, are not so easy to see, but will help make our schools better places to learn and work.

We want your children to be ready to join us on Aug. 11, too. The first day of school is critical for students to get off to a good start. Teachers not only set the tone and explain class expectations and rules, but the learning process kicks off as well. Students who miss the first day are left to catch up...and that isn’t always easy.

We also hope that, like us, you’re helping prepare your children for the first day of school. Here are a few tips that might help:

• If you’re attending a new school, make it a point not only to attend Meet the Teacher night (most GESD schools have this scheduled for Aug. 7), but see if you can visit even before then so your child can become familiar with classrooms, hallways and important offices like the principal or nurse.
• If possible, find out if there are any friends, relatives or neighbors in their class. Knowing someone makes any transition easier. Class lists are generally posted near the offices at every school.
• Have your child’s health checked, including vision and hearing. And, please, make sure all vaccinations are up-to-date.
• Start a bedtime schedule one week in advance of school so that your child gets at least eight hours of sleep at night (and for younger students, 10 hours). When they wake up is just as important as when they go to bed. Make sure you’re getting them up at the same time you would for school. Getting your child into a routine before school starts is very important.
• Talk about the start of school, and encourage your children to share feelings or concerns they may have. The more excited you are about the start of school, the more excited your children will be.
• Think safety, too: make sure your child knows the rules of the road when it comes to traffic, and what to do if they’re approached by a stranger.
• For those children who take the bus, make sure they know what route they’re on and where they get off.
• Preparation is key. Eliminate any last minute rushing by having your children pick out of their clothes the night before, and have a standard place to keep their school backpack.

We look forward to welcoming all of our students back in person on Aug. 11, and thank you for honor of serving your children, and the trust in support you show in the Glendale Elementary School District.

Joe Quintana

Superintendent