Chesterfield semifinalists in the 2010 National Merit Scholarship Program are Lloyd C. Bird High student Ryan Ball, Clover Hill High student Larson Lasek, Midlothian High students Alan Hauser and Bryan Kauder, Monacan High student James McLees and Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School students Susan Ballentine, Stephanie Humphrey, Jacob May, Elizabeth Pickering and Elissa Trieu.
This program, conducted by the National Merit Scholarship Corp., annually recognizes as semifinalists about 16,000 academically talented high school seniors across the country. Later in the school year, about 90 percent of the semifinalists will advance to become finalists and about half of the finalists will earn scholarships.
December 18, 2009
December 17, 2009
Chesterfield employees show compassion during tough times
Late last month, the school division wrapped up its 2009-10 United Way employee campaign drive. I’m happy to report that despite the tough economic times in which we currently find ourselves, our employees continue to demonstrate their compassion and desire to assist those less fortunate that others.
Employees pledged more than $231,000 during this year’s campaign. That was nearly 10 percent more than the school division’s goal of $212,000. In a time where other local government/schools campaigns are struggling to meet their goals, I am proud of our employees’ continued desire to give back to the community.
In addition, more than half of our buildings reached 100 percent of their building-level goals. Of this group, Harrowgate Elementary, Perrymont Middle, Community High School and the Chesterfield Technical Center contributed 200 percent of the goal set for the school.
The school division reached an all-time best when 85 employees pledge to give more than $500 to the United Way campaign. Of this group, 14 reached the United Way’s Capital Society, which denotes a gift of $1,000-$4,999.
Employees pledged more than $231,000 during this year’s campaign. That was nearly 10 percent more than the school division’s goal of $212,000. In a time where other local government/schools campaigns are struggling to meet their goals, I am proud of our employees’ continued desire to give back to the community.
In addition, more than half of our buildings reached 100 percent of their building-level goals. Of this group, Harrowgate Elementary, Perrymont Middle, Community High School and the Chesterfield Technical Center contributed 200 percent of the goal set for the school.
The school division reached an all-time best when 85 employees pledge to give more than $500 to the United Way campaign. Of this group, 14 reached the United Way’s Capital Society, which denotes a gift of $1,000-$4,999.
December 14, 2009
More Chesterfield students are graduating in four years
The on-time graduation rate for Chesterfield County Public Schools improved to 85.9 percent in 2009, up from 84.7 percent the previous year, according to figures released recently by the Virginia Department of Education.
Chesterfield students continued to outperform their peers across Virginia; Virginia’s on-time graduation rate is 83.2 percent in 2009 and was 82.2 percent in 2008. For every subset of students who entered ninth grade in the fall of 2005, Chesterfield’s on-time graduation rate improved.
Students graduating on time is a key measure of success in Chesterfield County Public Schools’ Design for Excellence strategic plan, which includes strategies for increasing the percentage of students who graduate in four years with a standard or advanced diploma.
I would caution those listening against misinterpreting this data. Thousands of students who entered ninth grade in 2005 remain in school and continue to work toward finishing their graduation requirements. The dropout rate is not the inverse of the on-time graduation rate.
Chesterfield students continued to outperform their peers across Virginia; Virginia’s on-time graduation rate is 83.2 percent in 2009 and was 82.2 percent in 2008. For every subset of students who entered ninth grade in the fall of 2005, Chesterfield’s on-time graduation rate improved.
Students graduating on time is a key measure of success in Chesterfield County Public Schools’ Design for Excellence strategic plan, which includes strategies for increasing the percentage of students who graduate in four years with a standard or advanced diploma.
I would caution those listening against misinterpreting this data. Thousands of students who entered ninth grade in 2005 remain in school and continue to work toward finishing their graduation requirements. The dropout rate is not the inverse of the on-time graduation rate.
December 9, 2009
Inclusive Schools Week
This week, Chesterfield County Public Schools joins school divisions across the country in celebration of Inclusive Schools Week.
The theme this year is Inclusive Technologies, which is in line with our school division’s focus on utilizing technology to enhance 21st century learning skills. Our employees and our schools continue to work diligently to foster an inclusive culture where all students, reflecting our rich diversity, are provided opportunities to learn 21st century skills and build relationships for a lifetime.
At the first Board meeting in January, members of our Exceptional Education team will be present to provide a look back at some of the activities that are scheduled to occur in our schools this week to celebrate inclusion.
The theme this year is Inclusive Technologies, which is in line with our school division’s focus on utilizing technology to enhance 21st century learning skills. Our employees and our schools continue to work diligently to foster an inclusive culture where all students, reflecting our rich diversity, are provided opportunities to learn 21st century skills and build relationships for a lifetime.
At the first Board meeting in January, members of our Exceptional Education team will be present to provide a look back at some of the activities that are scheduled to occur in our schools this week to celebrate inclusion.
November 30, 2009
Celebrating Student Success
Recently I had the opportunity to attend Hopkins Elementary's Success Night. This uplifting program began with a tribute to our veterans by the third-grade students, which was one of many school programs honoring our country’s heroes. Then, I was honored to be able to speak to the students about never taking their education for granted. I encouraged them to continue to excel in their studies, and congratulated them on their many outstanding achievements. I was very pleased to watch as the students were awarded for making honor roll, achieving goals on quarterly tests and outstanding attendance.
I am very proud of Hopkins Elementary, and I thank them for allowing me to spend an evening with them celebrating their successes. This is just one example of the student success occurring at all of our schools. Chesterfield schools consistently have high-achieving students who excel every day in their studies and personal commitments.
I am very proud of Hopkins Elementary, and I thank them for allowing me to spend an evening with them celebrating their successes. This is just one example of the student success occurring at all of our schools. Chesterfield schools consistently have high-achieving students who excel every day in their studies and personal commitments.
November 16, 2009
R.E.B. Awards for Teaching Excellence Winners
I would like to congratulate the six Chesterfield teachers who were recently awarded the R.E.B. Awards for Teaching Excellence. These teachers are wonderful examples of the extraordinary effort our teachers put into providing exciting learning experiences for our students. Chesterfield received more grants than any other school division this year. The monetary awards the winners will receive will go towards allowing our teachers to gain hands-on experiences and training from visiting various places such as eight national parks, Botswana and Central Europe.
Congratulations again to the winners and the finalists. I commend you for the innovative teaching methods you bring to the classroom. Keep up the great work!
Please take a moment to view a list of these accomplished teachers and learn more about their projects here: http://chesterfield.k12.va.us/CCPS/About_CCPS/awards.htm
Congratulations again to the winners and the finalists. I commend you for the innovative teaching methods you bring to the classroom. Keep up the great work!
Please take a moment to view a list of these accomplished teachers and learn more about their projects here: http://chesterfield.k12.va.us/CCPS/About_CCPS/awards.htm
Congratulations to James Wilson from Midlothian High, Suzanne Beck from Spring Run Elementary, Victoria Hugate from Grange Hall Elementary, Alice Potts from Manchester Middle, Anne Canipe from Cosby High and Cindy Jones from Clover Hill Elementary.
October 29, 2009
Mentoring our Students
This year I have asked all CCPS central office administrators to spend time mentoring students in our schools. To model my expectations, several of my colleagues from the central office have adopted male students from Perrymont Middle School to mentor. Earlier this week I had the opportunity to attend a team-building and confidence-building ropes course exercise with approximately 40 Perrymont boys.
The participating administrators included Dr. Lyle Evans, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources; Dr. Ed Pruden, Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Administration; Dr. Robert Wingfield, Director of Middle School Education; Dr. Joe Tylus, Director of High School Education; Dr. Dallas Dance, Director of School Improvement; Dr. Alice Rose, Principal of Perrymont Middle School, Dr. Dallas Dance, Director of School Improvement; Tim Mallory, Security Manager; and program organizer, Harold Saunders, Assistant Director of Leadership.
The day provided challenging and fun experiences that emphasized the importance of teamwork in our everyday lives. Here are photos of the boys and their mentors climbing a 30 foot pole and then jumping off with the assistance of students holding a harness rope lowering us to the ground. When the boys first saw the pole, many said they were afraid of heights and could not climb that high. However, at the end of the activity, virtually every boy climbed to the top and jumped off safely. They proved that with teamwork and encouragement, we can overcome our fears and nothing is impossible. The boys even encouraged me to take on the challenge of climbing to the top – harnessed of course!
The participating administrators included Dr. Lyle Evans, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources; Dr. Ed Pruden, Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Administration; Dr. Robert Wingfield, Director of Middle School Education; Dr. Joe Tylus, Director of High School Education; Dr. Dallas Dance, Director of School Improvement; Dr. Alice Rose, Principal of Perrymont Middle School, Dr. Dallas Dance, Director of School Improvement; Tim Mallory, Security Manager; and program organizer, Harold Saunders, Assistant Director of Leadership.
The day provided challenging and fun experiences that emphasized the importance of teamwork in our everyday lives. Here are photos of the boys and their mentors climbing a 30 foot pole and then jumping off with the assistance of students holding a harness rope lowering us to the ground. When the boys first saw the pole, many said they were afraid of heights and could not climb that high. However, at the end of the activity, virtually every boy climbed to the top and jumped off safely. They proved that with teamwork and encouragement, we can overcome our fears and nothing is impossible. The boys even encouraged me to take on the challenge of climbing to the top – harnessed of course!
October 13, 2009
Educational Editorial: 21st Century Skills
I would like to share with you an editorial written by NBC12 Educational Specialist Dr. Bill Bosher regarding the skills we need to provide to our students that will enable them to succeed in work and in their lives. Dr. Bosher attended a Chesterfield schools seminar for educators of area school divisions. Here's what Dr. Bosher wrote:
Last night, 16 school divisions from central Virginia gathered at the University of Richmond for professional development.
Ken Kay, President and Co-Founder of the Partnership for 21st Century Skills, was the keynote speaker. His organization consists of companies, some of the most influential in America, and institutions that have banned together to promote the development of skills beyond the three R's: problem solving, creative thinking, entrepreneurship, and self-direction.
The discussion was an avalanche of common sense, validated in research, and enabled by the development of sound public policy.
The exercise began with a question, "What are the two-three biggest changes in society in the last 25-30 years?" You can imagine the answers: the internet, workforce requirements, increase in the pace of change, and family dynamics.
The second assignment was, "List two-three skills that your students need to address the changes in society that you have described." The responses included: accessing and analyzing information, communicating with those who are different, solving problems, and adapting to many different jobs.
The last question was, "Looking at your school or district, how intentional are you in helping your students to develop these skills?" WOW, perhaps more of a goal than a question!
Ken Kay's quest, now adopted in 13 states, is not about creating a new set of disciplines or courses but about using the content that we teach to develop skills that are critical to successful work, and living. Do you remember asking your teacher, "how will I ever use this?"... well this is the answer, and it's coming to Virginia.
Last night, 16 school divisions from central Virginia gathered at the University of Richmond for professional development.
Ken Kay, President and Co-Founder of the Partnership for 21st Century Skills, was the keynote speaker. His organization consists of companies, some of the most influential in America, and institutions that have banned together to promote the development of skills beyond the three R's: problem solving, creative thinking, entrepreneurship, and self-direction.
The discussion was an avalanche of common sense, validated in research, and enabled by the development of sound public policy.
The exercise began with a question, "What are the two-three biggest changes in society in the last 25-30 years?" You can imagine the answers: the internet, workforce requirements, increase in the pace of change, and family dynamics.
The second assignment was, "List two-three skills that your students need to address the changes in society that you have described." The responses included: accessing and analyzing information, communicating with those who are different, solving problems, and adapting to many different jobs.
The last question was, "Looking at your school or district, how intentional are you in helping your students to develop these skills?" WOW, perhaps more of a goal than a question!
Ken Kay's quest, now adopted in 13 states, is not about creating a new set of disciplines or courses but about using the content that we teach to develop skills that are critical to successful work, and living. Do you remember asking your teacher, "how will I ever use this?"... well this is the answer, and it's coming to Virginia.
September 30, 2009
Lights, Camera, Take Action Campaign
This morning we held a press conference at Manchester High School to kick off the 3rd year of the Lights, Camera, Take Action campaign. I would like to share with you some of my remarks:
“Good morning! Welcome to Chesterfield County and to Manchester High School – proud home of the Mass Communications Specialty Center and of the 2008-09 Lights, Camera, Take Action video winner Jamet Jackson! We are always happy to showcase our talented students. This particular opportunity provides our students with hands-on learning; but even more importantly, it gives our students a chance to make a difference in our society. I’m extremely proud of our students’ efforts to eliminate underage drinking. Their efforts are strong indicators that our School Board-adopted core values of respect, responsibility, honesty and accountability resonate with many of today’s youth. It’s a personal honor to celebrate their successes here today, in light of CCPS celebration of the 10th anniversary of these core values. CCPS is a strong supporter of this region-wide effort to provide a safe community for our students. What makes this effort and the message even more powerful is it is designed and delivered by students. Parents in the room remember the challenges of trying to get our children to listen to our sage advice. When my three children were growing up, they often seemed to receive messages much more positively when they came from their peers than from my wife and I. This campaign is a gift that takes advantage of positive peer pressure. I challenge not only our students, but schools across the Richmond metro area to participate in this campaign. One of our annual goals is to provide a safe, supportive and nurturing learning environment. I can’t think of a better way to support and nurture our students: they need to understand the great decision-making responsibility that has been placed in their hands. Again, welcome to Chesterfield County. Thank you for your efforts to make our county and region a safe place to live and work!”
“Good morning! Welcome to Chesterfield County and to Manchester High School – proud home of the Mass Communications Specialty Center and of the 2008-09 Lights, Camera, Take Action video winner Jamet Jackson! We are always happy to showcase our talented students. This particular opportunity provides our students with hands-on learning; but even more importantly, it gives our students a chance to make a difference in our society. I’m extremely proud of our students’ efforts to eliminate underage drinking. Their efforts are strong indicators that our School Board-adopted core values of respect, responsibility, honesty and accountability resonate with many of today’s youth. It’s a personal honor to celebrate their successes here today, in light of CCPS celebration of the 10th anniversary of these core values. CCPS is a strong supporter of this region-wide effort to provide a safe community for our students. What makes this effort and the message even more powerful is it is designed and delivered by students. Parents in the room remember the challenges of trying to get our children to listen to our sage advice. When my three children were growing up, they often seemed to receive messages much more positively when they came from their peers than from my wife and I. This campaign is a gift that takes advantage of positive peer pressure. I challenge not only our students, but schools across the Richmond metro area to participate in this campaign. One of our annual goals is to provide a safe, supportive and nurturing learning environment. I can’t think of a better way to support and nurture our students: they need to understand the great decision-making responsibility that has been placed in their hands. Again, welcome to Chesterfield County. Thank you for your efforts to make our county and region a safe place to live and work!”
September 11, 2009
Congratulations!
Good afternoon!
Thank you for everything you have done to ensure an exciting start to the 2009-10 school year. I had the opportunity to visit 10 schools this week, and everywhere I visited I saw clean facilities, well-organized classrooms and routines, on-task teamwork by employees, and happy, highly motivated and engaged students. Our community is blessed to have outstanding teachers, administrators and support staff helping to create a safe, supportive and nurturing learning environment for our students. It is rare for educators to receive “positive” public feedback. So, I wanted to take time to share some of the many recent comments left on the school division’s Facebook page (no grammatical edits made to original postings):
We love all the teachers and office staff at Grange Hall! Mrs Sefrin is the BEST principal around :)
We have a 3rd grader at Gordon ES. We always feel like part of a family there and that everyone supports everyone's efforts. For example, we ran into a teacher that neither of my sons ever had at an event to raise money for charity. That teacher went out of her way to find my son the next week and commend him for giving his time to help others. That meant a lot to him. My younger son is very artistic and, thanks to his teachers, almost the entire faculty and staff knows about it. So many of them have commented on his art and encouraged him. When he is the next Maurice Sendak, he will remember these times!
The teachers and staff at OB Gates are the greatest! We are also fortunate to a have great principals and Mrs Mick, Mrs Evans and Mrs Linville help to keep everything running smoothly!!
My children and I are looking forward to another great year with the staff at Alberta Smith!
I taught Kindergarten at C.C. Wells years ago and just loved it! I miss seeing my fellow teachers and the wonderful kids. My kids go to Robious Elem. and Middle and we are so lucky to be a part of such a fantastic learning environment. Looking forward to another great year!
My grandson Tyler attends Providence Elementary . He is ADHD and at times has trouble with attending and acting out. The teachers and staff take the time to understand and help him daily.The prinicipal is loved and respected . I have noticed he calls every student by name and takes the time to talk or at least say good morning when he sees them.I want to thank everyone at Providence for taking the extra step to teach my grandson.Thanks with love from Tylers grandmother
My daughter will be going entering 5th grade at Enon Elementary, we absolutely love this school, from the office staff to the teachers they are all so friendly and professional!
I just graduated from probably the best high school in the county. whoo hoo! Go Dale!
Curtis is an exceptional school because of the courteous and professional staff as well as the very active P.T.A. Once your child enrolls you are welcomed and made to feel like you can make such a difference in your child's education if you take the time. My children are actually excited to go back and I think that is the best testament to Curtis!! ♥
All of my children have attended A.M. Davis. The teachers and staff have always been very helpful and accomadating to me, a parent with a disability!!!!
Let's hear it for the two new schools in Chester..E. Scott Elementary and E. Davis Middle. Way to go!
Beulah Elementary in is a wonderful school i love it!!!!!!!!!!!!
At Swift Creek Elementary last year, I love that Dr.Bechtel listened to my Kindergartner's story and wrote me a personal note home to tell me what a great reader he was.
I love the people I work with at Curtis Elementary! Also, I LOVE the kids!!! My husband and I, as well as all five of our children and our oldest granddaughter attended Curtis. I am one of the lucky people in this world that LIKES their job!
The best thing about Matoaca High School is that the Special Ed department is awesome. They never get credit for all the love,attention,patience and time they put into their jobs. You never see Special Ed teachers get teacher of the year. Their jobs are 10 times harder than regular teachers. My son loves his teachers there and is looking forward to starting back.Thanks for all the wonderful Special Ed teachers at Matoaca High School. You are the best!!!
Teachers with big hearts!
MATOACA ELEMENTARY LOVES MY SON! He is a special needs child ...his teachers truly love him and see so much potential in him. What more could a parent ask?
I have 2 kids at Curtis and I love it! I don't have to worry about what teacher they will get because they are all so good. Awesome office staff too - Brenda, Diane and Karen do an amazing job.
Awesome students at Meadowbrook. Can't wait for the new school year!
We love Crestwood Elementary! Great teachers and staff! Looking forward to another great year in the first and third grades.
Again, congratulations on a great start to the new school year. To quote our president in his back to school message to America’s students: “I expect great things from each of you…. I know you can do it.” Best wishes for even better things to come.
Marcus Newsome
Thank you for everything you have done to ensure an exciting start to the 2009-10 school year. I had the opportunity to visit 10 schools this week, and everywhere I visited I saw clean facilities, well-organized classrooms and routines, on-task teamwork by employees, and happy, highly motivated and engaged students. Our community is blessed to have outstanding teachers, administrators and support staff helping to create a safe, supportive and nurturing learning environment for our students. It is rare for educators to receive “positive” public feedback. So, I wanted to take time to share some of the many recent comments left on the school division’s Facebook page (no grammatical edits made to original postings):
We love all the teachers and office staff at Grange Hall! Mrs Sefrin is the BEST principal around :)
We have a 3rd grader at Gordon ES. We always feel like part of a family there and that everyone supports everyone's efforts. For example, we ran into a teacher that neither of my sons ever had at an event to raise money for charity. That teacher went out of her way to find my son the next week and commend him for giving his time to help others. That meant a lot to him. My younger son is very artistic and, thanks to his teachers, almost the entire faculty and staff knows about it. So many of them have commented on his art and encouraged him. When he is the next Maurice Sendak, he will remember these times!
The teachers and staff at OB Gates are the greatest! We are also fortunate to a have great principals and Mrs Mick, Mrs Evans and Mrs Linville help to keep everything running smoothly!!
My children and I are looking forward to another great year with the staff at Alberta Smith!
I taught Kindergarten at C.C. Wells years ago and just loved it! I miss seeing my fellow teachers and the wonderful kids. My kids go to Robious Elem. and Middle and we are so lucky to be a part of such a fantastic learning environment. Looking forward to another great year!
My grandson Tyler attends Providence Elementary . He is ADHD and at times has trouble with attending and acting out. The teachers and staff take the time to understand and help him daily.The prinicipal is loved and respected . I have noticed he calls every student by name and takes the time to talk or at least say good morning when he sees them.I want to thank everyone at Providence for taking the extra step to teach my grandson.Thanks with love from Tylers grandmother
My daughter will be going entering 5th grade at Enon Elementary, we absolutely love this school, from the office staff to the teachers they are all so friendly and professional!
I just graduated from probably the best high school in the county. whoo hoo! Go Dale!
Curtis is an exceptional school because of the courteous and professional staff as well as the very active P.T.A. Once your child enrolls you are welcomed and made to feel like you can make such a difference in your child's education if you take the time. My children are actually excited to go back and I think that is the best testament to Curtis!! ♥
All of my children have attended A.M. Davis. The teachers and staff have always been very helpful and accomadating to me, a parent with a disability!!!!
Let's hear it for the two new schools in Chester..E. Scott Elementary and E. Davis Middle. Way to go!
Beulah Elementary in is a wonderful school i love it!!!!!!!!!!!!
At Swift Creek Elementary last year, I love that Dr.Bechtel listened to my Kindergartner's story and wrote me a personal note home to tell me what a great reader he was.
I love the people I work with at Curtis Elementary! Also, I LOVE the kids!!! My husband and I, as well as all five of our children and our oldest granddaughter attended Curtis. I am one of the lucky people in this world that LIKES their job!
The best thing about Matoaca High School is that the Special Ed department is awesome. They never get credit for all the love,attention,patience and time they put into their jobs. You never see Special Ed teachers get teacher of the year. Their jobs are 10 times harder than regular teachers. My son loves his teachers there and is looking forward to starting back.Thanks for all the wonderful Special Ed teachers at Matoaca High School. You are the best!!!
Teachers with big hearts!
MATOACA ELEMENTARY LOVES MY SON! He is a special needs child ...his teachers truly love him and see so much potential in him. What more could a parent ask?
I have 2 kids at Curtis and I love it! I don't have to worry about what teacher they will get because they are all so good. Awesome office staff too - Brenda, Diane and Karen do an amazing job.
Awesome students at Meadowbrook. Can't wait for the new school year!
We love Crestwood Elementary! Great teachers and staff! Looking forward to another great year in the first and third grades.
Again, congratulations on a great start to the new school year. To quote our president in his back to school message to America’s students: “I expect great things from each of you…. I know you can do it.” Best wishes for even better things to come.
Marcus Newsome
September 1, 2009
THANK YOU!
Partnerships between our students, parents, staff and the community are essential for academic success. One unique partnership we have formed is the From Crayons to Computers Store. The store is stocked with donations from small businesses, large businesses, community groups and individuals. This is a free store for our teachers who may take whatever they can use. Donations are tax deductible; only food and clothing are not accepted.
This year local businesses and the Chesterfield community have surpassed all expectations. We have received a record number of donations. On behalf of the school division, I want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has donated to the store. Our teachers are very appreciative of the many different ways our community continues to rally in support of our team.
Thank you again and please don’t forget that the store is open all year. If anyone is interested in making a donation all you need to do is call 276-7407. Arrangements can be made for donations to be received at the store. If it is easier, arrangements can also be made for donations to be picked up.
This year local businesses and the Chesterfield community have surpassed all expectations. We have received a record number of donations. On behalf of the school division, I want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has donated to the store. Our teachers are very appreciative of the many different ways our community continues to rally in support of our team.
Thank you again and please don’t forget that the store is open all year. If anyone is interested in making a donation all you need to do is call 276-7407. Arrangements can be made for donations to be received at the store. If it is easier, arrangements can also be made for donations to be picked up.
August 31, 2009
Happy new school year!
Welcome to our newest members of the Chesterfield County Public Schools family and welcome back to those returning to work. I hope you enjoyed a restful summer and return to work with a renewed passion and enthusiasm for educating our students.
I am proud of Chesterfield County Public Schools’ rich heritage of success and our outstanding reputation as a leader in public education. Working together, we have experienced extraordinary success and have set a high bar for quality education. I have no doubt that we will continue to meet any challenge and even exceed the expectations we have for ourselves.
Helen Keller once said: “One can never consent to creep when one feels the compulsion to soar.” I ask that you join me in making a personal and professional commitment to help our students to soar this school year. We can encourage and inspire them to reach their highest potential.
Thank you for your amazing service and devotion to our students and community. I extend my warmest regards and best wishes for a successful and rewarding 2009-10 school year!
Marcus Newsome
I am proud of Chesterfield County Public Schools’ rich heritage of success and our outstanding reputation as a leader in public education. Working together, we have experienced extraordinary success and have set a high bar for quality education. I have no doubt that we will continue to meet any challenge and even exceed the expectations we have for ourselves.
Helen Keller once said: “One can never consent to creep when one feels the compulsion to soar.” I ask that you join me in making a personal and professional commitment to help our students to soar this school year. We can encourage and inspire them to reach their highest potential.
Thank you for your amazing service and devotion to our students and community. I extend my warmest regards and best wishes for a successful and rewarding 2009-10 school year!
Marcus Newsome
August 28, 2009
Leadership Meeting
About 200 principals, assistant principals and central office administrators participated Monday in the first superintendent’s leadership meeting of the new school year. I would like to thank our Professional Development Department under the leadership of Donna Dalton and Harold Saunders for organizing an outstanding series of professional development sessions for our leaders.
Our keynote speakers were Kati Haycock and Brooke Haycock from the Education Trust. Kati Haycock is one of the nation’s leading child advocates in the field of education.
She currently serves as president of the Education Trust. Established in 1992, the trust speaks for what is right for young people, especially those who are poor or members of minority groups. The trust also provides hands-on assistance to educators who want to work together to improve student achievement, prekindergarten through college. Previously, Kati Haycock served as executive vice president of the Children’s Defense Fund, the nation’s largest child advocacy organization.
She shared a 162-slide PowerPoint presentation on national and international student achievement trends as well as specific student performance in Chesterfield County Public Schools. Overall, Virginia elementary students ranked seventh in reading among the 50 states. Chesterfield County elementary students ranked 10th in reading among Virginia’s 132 school districts. Like most high-performing school systems, we strive to be No. 1.
The training session began and ended with Brooke Haycock, who portrayed a troubled student, one of 16 characters in her one-woman show. She received a standing ovation for her powerful presentation of the challenges and hopes of our most challenged students and the power of caring educators to transform a life.
Our keynote speakers were Kati Haycock and Brooke Haycock from the Education Trust. Kati Haycock is one of the nation’s leading child advocates in the field of education.
She currently serves as president of the Education Trust. Established in 1992, the trust speaks for what is right for young people, especially those who are poor or members of minority groups. The trust also provides hands-on assistance to educators who want to work together to improve student achievement, prekindergarten through college. Previously, Kati Haycock served as executive vice president of the Children’s Defense Fund, the nation’s largest child advocacy organization.
She shared a 162-slide PowerPoint presentation on national and international student achievement trends as well as specific student performance in Chesterfield County Public Schools. Overall, Virginia elementary students ranked seventh in reading among the 50 states. Chesterfield County elementary students ranked 10th in reading among Virginia’s 132 school districts. Like most high-performing school systems, we strive to be No. 1.
The training session began and ended with Brooke Haycock, who portrayed a troubled student, one of 16 characters in her one-woman show. She received a standing ovation for her powerful presentation of the challenges and hopes of our most challenged students and the power of caring educators to transform a life.
July 27, 2009
Digital Natives
Marc Prensky is acknowledged to have coined the term digital native in his 2001 work “Digital Natives, Digital Immigrants.” In his article, he assigns the term to a new breed of student entering educational establishments.
According to Wikipedia the term draws an analogy between a country's natives, for whom the local religion, language and folkways are natural and indigenous, and immigrants to a country who often are expected to adapt and assimilate to their newly adopted home. Prensky refers to accents employed by digital immigrants, such as printing documents rather than commenting on screen or printing out emails to save in hard copy form. Digital immigrants are said to have a "thick accent" when operating in the digital world in distinctly pre-digital ways, when, for instance, they might "dial" someone on the telephone to ask if his e-mail was received.
In Chesterfield County Public Schools we educate approximately 59,000 digital natives every day. We are making every effort to bridge the digital divide between digital natives and digital immigrants by expanding our communication tools in a safe and user friendly cyber environment. Last week we unveiled our new and improved web site, which includes 21st century communication and social networking tools like YouTube, Facebook and Twitter.
I encourage you to browse our web site. In a world saturated with negative images and messages, I plan to use the 140 characters allotted by Twitter to post positive and encouraging quotes.
In return, I would like for you to share your favorite quotes with me and our readers.
According to Wikipedia the term draws an analogy between a country's natives, for whom the local religion, language and folkways are natural and indigenous, and immigrants to a country who often are expected to adapt and assimilate to their newly adopted home. Prensky refers to accents employed by digital immigrants, such as printing documents rather than commenting on screen or printing out emails to save in hard copy form. Digital immigrants are said to have a "thick accent" when operating in the digital world in distinctly pre-digital ways, when, for instance, they might "dial" someone on the telephone to ask if his e-mail was received.
In Chesterfield County Public Schools we educate approximately 59,000 digital natives every day. We are making every effort to bridge the digital divide between digital natives and digital immigrants by expanding our communication tools in a safe and user friendly cyber environment. Last week we unveiled our new and improved web site, which includes 21st century communication and social networking tools like YouTube, Facebook and Twitter.
I encourage you to browse our web site. In a world saturated with negative images and messages, I plan to use the 140 characters allotted by Twitter to post positive and encouraging quotes.
In return, I would like for you to share your favorite quotes with me and our readers.
May 27, 2009
National School Change Award at Carver
Today I had the pleasure of attending the Panasonic National School Change Awards ceremony for Carver Middle School. I would like to share with you some remarks I made while introducing Dr. Lew Smith, Director of the Panasonic National School Change Awards.
We expect a lot from young people:
We expect you to study hard. Get good grades. Believe in yourself. Do your best. Help your community. Make good choices. Be a friend. Dream big. Be a success.
The National School Change Award is proof that our students at Carver Middle School are succeeding in a big, big way. You have decided that you will excel in class, that you will make a difference in the community and that you will achieve your dreams. Your commitment to excellence is clear.
Congratulations to the Carver Cougars on this outstanding accomplishment. I am proud of your success, and I am happy to share this moment with you.
Let’s not stop. I challenge Carver Middle School to continue to move forward, to work hard and to see how much higher your star can rise. There are no limits to what you can achieve if you remain focused and committed.
At this time, I would like to introduce Dr. Lew Smith, who is here to present the Panasonic National School Change Award to Carver Middle School. Dr. Smith is directs the National School Change Program, which is based at Fordham University in New York. He began his career as a high school social studies teacher and has extensive experience in many, many areas of education.
This is the third time that I have helped welcome Dr. Smith to Chesterfield County Public Schools because this is the third year in a row that a Chesterfield school has won a National School Change Award. We are always delighted to greet Dr. Smith with a warm Chesterfield County welcome.
May 11, 2009
Message to the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors and School Board at May 7 Joint Meeting
It is my hope and desire that all parties participating in this meeting leave enlightened, encouraged, and united as a result of the staff presentations and your discussion. Both the Chesterfield County Government and School Division have earned exemplary reputations as a result of the outstanding services and education it offers its citizens, both young and old.
This past week I attended a national education conference in the Washington, D.C. area where our school division was highlighted as one of the exemplary systems in the nation. And this week I participated in the Virginia Annual Conference of the Superintendents on Global Education, where again, our innovative and forward thinking strategies to prepare our students for success in the 21st Century was validated as we examined the work of Harvard Professor and author of the Global Achievement Gap, Tony Wagner, and engaged in discussions with educators from Finland and a panel from India. They also helped affirm the profound challenges ahead in light of the remarkable progress we are experiencing.
Our president recently said, “The time for finger-pointing is over. The time for holding ourselves accountable is here…It is time to expect more from our students…Let there be no doubt, the future belongs to the nation that best educates its citizens.” Furthermore, he states, “Economic progress and educational achievement have always gone hand-in-hand in America.”
We can all agree that strong schools are good business for Chesterfield County, for the Commonwealth of Virginia, and for the United States of America.
In closing, I extend a special thanks to each of you for your service, and a special thank you to Jay Stegmaier and his staff for the collaborative manner in which they have worked with our school division staff during some very difficult times. May we always remember that it's not about us, but it is all about our children and citizens we serve. United we stand.
Respectfully,
Marcus J. Newsome
This past week I attended a national education conference in the Washington, D.C. area where our school division was highlighted as one of the exemplary systems in the nation. And this week I participated in the Virginia Annual Conference of the Superintendents on Global Education, where again, our innovative and forward thinking strategies to prepare our students for success in the 21st Century was validated as we examined the work of Harvard Professor and author of the Global Achievement Gap, Tony Wagner, and engaged in discussions with educators from Finland and a panel from India. They also helped affirm the profound challenges ahead in light of the remarkable progress we are experiencing.
Our president recently said, “The time for finger-pointing is over. The time for holding ourselves accountable is here…It is time to expect more from our students…Let there be no doubt, the future belongs to the nation that best educates its citizens.” Furthermore, he states, “Economic progress and educational achievement have always gone hand-in-hand in America.”
We can all agree that strong schools are good business for Chesterfield County, for the Commonwealth of Virginia, and for the United States of America.
In closing, I extend a special thanks to each of you for your service, and a special thank you to Jay Stegmaier and his staff for the collaborative manner in which they have worked with our school division staff during some very difficult times. May we always remember that it's not about us, but it is all about our children and citizens we serve. United we stand.
Respectfully,
Marcus J. Newsome
March 20, 2009
Practical Lessons for Aspiring Leaders
This past weekend I had the opportunity to serve as a pre-conference presenter for the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development annual conference in Orlando, Florida (http://www.ascd.org/professional_development/Workshops/One-Day_Pre-Conf_Institutes.aspx#PD09PC034). My topic was “Practical Lessons for Aspiring Leaders and Superintendents.”
While I thoroughly enjoyed my time interacting with leaders from around the world, the highlight of the conference for me was a keynote speech by Greg Mortenson. Since a 1993 climb on Pakistan's K2, Greg Mortenson (http://www.gregmortenson.com/) has dedicated his life to promoting community-based education and literacy programs, especially for girls, in remote mountain regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Through his unique perspective on the region's culture, history, and geopolitics, Mortenson shared insightful commentary about his extraordinary journey and efforts to promote peace one school and one child at a time.
Mortenson is also founder of Pennies For Peace (www.penniesforpeace.org) and co-author of the #1 New York Times best-seller, Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace...One School At A Time (Penguin 2007) (www.threecupsoftea.com). It was Mortenson’s work to promote peace that as earned him a Nobel Peace Prize nomination.
I was particularly moved by Mortenson’s efforts to raise money. After failing to attract business and corporate sponsors for his plans to build a school for poor children in Afghanistan, his daughter led a penny fundraising effort in her school. The students at her elementary school donated over 65,000 pennies for the first major donation. This may not seem like much to some, but for the boys and girls in an Afghan village with no school or books, and only sticks to write in the dirt to educate themselves, $652 was a blessing. The penny campaign is now worldwide and children who may have grown up to be enemies of our nation, are now being educated because of the generosity of American children.
The lesson learned here is that during tough times, pennies go a long way. They can even change the world if used creatively.
While I thoroughly enjoyed my time interacting with leaders from around the world, the highlight of the conference for me was a keynote speech by Greg Mortenson. Since a 1993 climb on Pakistan's K2, Greg Mortenson (http://www.gregmortenson.com/) has dedicated his life to promoting community-based education and literacy programs, especially for girls, in remote mountain regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Through his unique perspective on the region's culture, history, and geopolitics, Mortenson shared insightful commentary about his extraordinary journey and efforts to promote peace one school and one child at a time.
Mortenson is also founder of Pennies For Peace (www.penniesforpeace.org) and co-author of the #1 New York Times best-seller, Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace...One School At A Time (Penguin 2007) (www.threecupsoftea.com). It was Mortenson’s work to promote peace that as earned him a Nobel Peace Prize nomination.
I was particularly moved by Mortenson’s efforts to raise money. After failing to attract business and corporate sponsors for his plans to build a school for poor children in Afghanistan, his daughter led a penny fundraising effort in her school. The students at her elementary school donated over 65,000 pennies for the first major donation. This may not seem like much to some, but for the boys and girls in an Afghan village with no school or books, and only sticks to write in the dirt to educate themselves, $652 was a blessing. The penny campaign is now worldwide and children who may have grown up to be enemies of our nation, are now being educated because of the generosity of American children.
The lesson learned here is that during tough times, pennies go a long way. They can even change the world if used creatively.
March 16, 2009
The GED can be FREE in March
In March, GED® tests are free. The usual cost is $45, but first-time test takers who register in March will pay nothing to take the test. Chesterfield County Public Schools is able to offer free tests for a limited time because the Adult Continuing Education Office received a grant from the Virginia Department of Education.
GED stands for General Educational Development, and a GED certificate is equivalent to a high school diploma. Last year, 560 adults earned a GED through the Adult Continuing Education Office of Chesterfield County Public Schools.
Why is earning a GED important? By 2012, according to the Virginia Department of Education, 70 percent of job opportunities will require a technical skills certificate. Entry into these programs requires a high school diploma or a GED.
For more information, call 768-6140 or go online to chesterfield.k12.va.us.
GED stands for General Educational Development, and a GED certificate is equivalent to a high school diploma. Last year, 560 adults earned a GED through the Adult Continuing Education Office of Chesterfield County Public Schools.
Why is earning a GED important? By 2012, according to the Virginia Department of Education, 70 percent of job opportunities will require a technical skills certificate. Entry into these programs requires a high school diploma or a GED.
For more information, call 768-6140 or go online to chesterfield.k12.va.us.
February 5, 2009
Editorial on student-teacher ratio
I wanted to share with you a recent editorial by Dr. William Bosher on NBC12 regarding student-teacher ratio. Please view the video on the NBC12 site.
January 26, 2009
A Call to Action
When the Soviet Union launched Sputnik in 1957, the first satellite to orbit the Earth that was considered by many a threat to American national security, the immediate response was the turn to education to solve the crisis. When the Nation at Risk report was released in 1983, education was described as the central issue that would define our nation’s future. Three years ago, noted author Thomas Friedman warned in his book, The World is Flat, that globalization had shifted into warp speed and if America was to meet the challenges of advances in technology and communications we must step up our pace. Education, again, was seen as the key component.
Today we are experiencing change in the midst of an economic recession and collapsing financial markets and the transition of the presidency. These are unprecedented times, and few people in the community, state or country are unaffected. If ever a call to action was needed, the time is now.
That change and action begins with education, which is the backbone of a democracy. As Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
The price of education may seem high to some, but the cost of ignorance is much more expensive. The Chesterfield community has long understood and benefitted from the investment in public education, which many describe as the economic engine that drives the county. As elected officials grapple with ways to balance budgets in times of declining state and local revenues, we should remind them to continue to make education their top funding priority. While we are competing for tax dollars with many other critical services, it is important to remember that our police and firemen, nurses and doctors, judges and social workers were all educated by teachers.
Every locality in this region is struggling to adequately fund education. Many now face drastic cuts. In Chesterfield County alone, we face the daunting task of cutting $52 million from our FY2010 operating budget based on state and local cuts to previously approved funding for public education.
Recent external audits have documented that Chesterfield County Public Schools is one of the most cost-efficient school divisions in Virginia. Administrative costs are 2.4 percent, which is lower than the state average. Chesterfield is the largest school division in Virginia with all of its fully accredited, yet ranks near the bottom of Virginia’s 132 school divisions in terms of per-pupil spending.
With recommendations from internal and external stakeholders serving on the Superintendent’s Budget Advisory Committee, we will make every effort to minimize the impact of these cuts to student learning. However, cutting $52 million from the operating budget will have a profound impact. Every single aspect of our education system, inside and outside of the classroom, will suffer. Some have said these funding cuts can be taken care of by cutting administrative costs and positions. That is simply not true. Wiping out the entire Chesterfield schools administration would still require the system to cut the budget by another 5 or 6 percent. The magnitude of these budget reductions on our school system is equivalent to the state shutting down five entire smaller school systems.
It is for all of these reasons that our school system has provided continuous budget updates to employees, parents, students and the Chesterfield community. I feel a professional, moral and personal obligation to discuss these challenges openly in order for our community to prepare for the future ramifications these budget cuts will have on Chesterfield students and families.
Asking our teachers to meet higher standards of state and federal accountability, teach larger class sizes and respond to more behavioral problems with fewer resources and slashed budgets is like the Pharaoh asking the Israelites to make bricks without straw.
We are maximizing our efforts and efficiencies to provide the best education possible for our students. But our school division needs help. So I ask Chesterfield residents, and others in the Richmond metropolitan area, to contact their local and state elected officials to ensure that everything possible is done to protect our teachers, other school staff members and most importantly our students. The vitality of our nation, state and county rests squarely on the shoulders of a strong public education system. It is time for citizens to act.
Today we are experiencing change in the midst of an economic recession and collapsing financial markets and the transition of the presidency. These are unprecedented times, and few people in the community, state or country are unaffected. If ever a call to action was needed, the time is now.
That change and action begins with education, which is the backbone of a democracy. As Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
The price of education may seem high to some, but the cost of ignorance is much more expensive. The Chesterfield community has long understood and benefitted from the investment in public education, which many describe as the economic engine that drives the county. As elected officials grapple with ways to balance budgets in times of declining state and local revenues, we should remind them to continue to make education their top funding priority. While we are competing for tax dollars with many other critical services, it is important to remember that our police and firemen, nurses and doctors, judges and social workers were all educated by teachers.
Every locality in this region is struggling to adequately fund education. Many now face drastic cuts. In Chesterfield County alone, we face the daunting task of cutting $52 million from our FY2010 operating budget based on state and local cuts to previously approved funding for public education.
Recent external audits have documented that Chesterfield County Public Schools is one of the most cost-efficient school divisions in Virginia. Administrative costs are 2.4 percent, which is lower than the state average. Chesterfield is the largest school division in Virginia with all of its fully accredited, yet ranks near the bottom of Virginia’s 132 school divisions in terms of per-pupil spending.
With recommendations from internal and external stakeholders serving on the Superintendent’s Budget Advisory Committee, we will make every effort to minimize the impact of these cuts to student learning. However, cutting $52 million from the operating budget will have a profound impact. Every single aspect of our education system, inside and outside of the classroom, will suffer. Some have said these funding cuts can be taken care of by cutting administrative costs and positions. That is simply not true. Wiping out the entire Chesterfield schools administration would still require the system to cut the budget by another 5 or 6 percent. The magnitude of these budget reductions on our school system is equivalent to the state shutting down five entire smaller school systems.
It is for all of these reasons that our school system has provided continuous budget updates to employees, parents, students and the Chesterfield community. I feel a professional, moral and personal obligation to discuss these challenges openly in order for our community to prepare for the future ramifications these budget cuts will have on Chesterfield students and families.
Asking our teachers to meet higher standards of state and federal accountability, teach larger class sizes and respond to more behavioral problems with fewer resources and slashed budgets is like the Pharaoh asking the Israelites to make bricks without straw.
We are maximizing our efforts and efficiencies to provide the best education possible for our students. But our school division needs help. So I ask Chesterfield residents, and others in the Richmond metropolitan area, to contact their local and state elected officials to ensure that everything possible is done to protect our teachers, other school staff members and most importantly our students. The vitality of our nation, state and county rests squarely on the shoulders of a strong public education system. It is time for citizens to act.
January 7, 2009
I would like to share with you a presentation I made yesterday to colleagues at the Quarterly Leadership Meeting. The presentation discussed budget updates and our key measures progress.
Please feel free to view it here: http://chesterfield.k12.va.us/CCPS/superintendent/files/presentations/0106%20supts%20quarter%20meeting.pdf
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