This Week, from Dr. Cuthbert | December 18

Happy Holidays to each and all!  I hope you will have happy times with family and friends.  Thanks for your support of Stoddert and of me as we all work together to make a warm and challenging environment for all students.  I wish you a very Happy New Year!  See you in 2010!

It has been a very busy week.  The Fillmore Concert presented at Hardy Middle School by our students studying stringed instruments was terrific.  The Stoddert students were strong performers and wonderfully mannered.  Across the week many celebrations happened in the various grade levels and classrooms.  You were so generous with wonderful special foods from all over the world.  It is marvelous that the students, as well as all of us adults, can experience these wonderful foods from cherished traditions.

When we return in January, it will be time to make plans for next school year with respect to budget and programs.  Your Local School Restructuring Team (LSRT), an advisory group to the principal made up of elected parents and teachers, will meet in early January and help plan for next year.  On January 4, we are to receive our projected enrollment for next year.  This number will determine our per-pupil funding and thus be the foundation of our budget.  The LSRT and I will get out information as soon as possible, as we need your input to make decisions.

Again, enjoy your break from school.  I wish you health and happiness for the holiday season and always.

– Dr. Marjorie Cuthbert