A Hectic Hibernation

Dear Parents,

Well, I feel as if I'm coming out of what I would term a "hectic hibernation!" Although I've been abnormally quiet on this blog over the summer, it's been incredibly busy. As many of you know, I'm working on a doctoral degree, and that certainly has been time consuming! But, and much more importantly, a great deal of effort has gone into the future of PPES. I can't wait to share additional details in the coming weeks and months, but there are exciting things on the horizon. That said, I wanted to just let you know we are still here and getting geared up for our best year, yet. The updates will be fast and furious, so stay tuned.

So you know, however, class placements will be available via Infinite Campus portal access within the first 10 days of August, when the district reopens access. Our teachers, with guidance and input from me, special areas, support staff, and you, worked very hard to do what is nearly impossible: balance classes around social, academic, and interpersonal relationships. As I know you realize, we can't make everybody happy with placements, but we certainly do our best to make things work; and they ultimately always do!

I like to say that although we've been conditioned to buy into the concept of a "school year" as having some inherent power in isolation, research is clear about blocks of multiple years and the power of a varied experience, over time. We will work diligently with everyone to have a successful year and I know you will be happy with the opportunities provided for your child. As your he/she walks across the stage at the conclusion of sixth grade, you will look upon your time at PPES as a positive and engaging period for your whole family.

Last, I can't encourage you enough to sign up for our Twitter updates. We are PinnaclePeakEs, so start following us for constant news and updates. I Tweet pretty much everywhere on my iPhone, so you will always get the latest information. For those of you not familiar or comfortable with the platform, it is quite simple and can be a fantastic source of communication. Best of all, it is free!

That's it for now, but many more updates are coming (especially via Twitter!). So, stay tuned. I can't wait to see you all, again!

Mike