As we enter the mid-point in July, it seems hard to believe that the 2007-2008 school year has come to an end. I am overcome with joy as the completion of the 2007-2008 school year has marked another increasingly successful school year for our students. I would like to extend my sincerest congratulations to the entire graduating class of 2008. They are an extraordinary group of young adults, all of whom I know will continue their success through college and their career choices.

I would like to again thank the Mineola community for supporting the 2008-2009 Educational Plan and Budget and for assisting us in another successful school year. Your support is invaluable to our district. As well, I would like to thank our many parents and community volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to the well-being of our students and schools. Together, we are ensuring our students succeed at higher levels than ever before.

Indeed, our journey in continuous improvement of student learning, which we started only a few years ago, has produced results that have consistently exceeded our predictions. This year our state assessment results in nearly every area are the highest ever. Moreover, our largest gains have been made in the Middle School, which had been targeted for improvement. Congratulations to all of our students and staff for their fine work.

Looking forward to the 2008-2009 school year, I will be providing a weekly "Superintendent's Update" that will be on our website and in our local papers. I also will be conducting a "100-90" starting in August. The goal I have set for myself is to meet with 100 people in 90 days (100-90) to listen to your concerns and thoughts about our schools.

In closing, I wish our students and their families an enjoyable summer. I look forward to seeing you in September for what promises to be another wonderful year for our school community.