By Shelly Mason, Superintendent, ETUSD

The beginning of a new school year is always a time of excitement and optimism. At all five of our schools—Frazier Park Elementary, El Tejon School, Frazier Mountain High, Pine Mountain Learning Center and El Tejon Continuation School, teachers and staff have been busy greeting and getting acquainted with students who are returning to the classroom. We want to welcome all of our students and families, and encourage you to become active partners with us.

According to research from the U.S. Department of Education, when parents get involved in their child’s education, their children earn better grades and test scores, graduate from high school at higher rates, are more likely to go on to further education and are better behaved with more positive attitudes. Students, parents and teachers working together provide the best opportunity for high achievement, and educational success.

We have many challenges to face. Under the direction of our Board of Trustees, and with the support of this community, our dedicated staff continues to strive for improvement in the quality of education that we provide for all students.

Our expectations for the new school year are great, and I am confident that together we can help our students achieve their potential.

Here’s to a successful and rewarding year in the El Tejon Unified School District!

10 Steps You Can Take To Improve Your Child’s Education:

• Make sure your children come to school!
• Read together
• Establish a daily family routine that includes a time and a place for daily homework.
• Communicate positive behaviors, values, and character traits
• Monitor out-of-school activities
• Use the TV wisely
• Schedule daily homework times
• Interact with children and teenagers
• Expect achievement and offer praise
• Keep in touch with the school and teachers

This is part of the August 17, 2007 online edition of The Mountain Enterprise.

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