Superintendent Jones Welcomes the New Year

By STEPHEN C. JONES

By Stephen C. Jones

Welcome to the 2007- 08 school year. It is an honor to serve as superintendent of Norfolk Public Schools. I am proud of the tremendous progress being made towards our goal of becoming a world- class school system – a school system where:

* All students are powerfully literate.

* All gaps are eliminated while increasing achievement for all.

* All schools meet and exceed state, national and international benchmarks.

* All students are prepared to access productive options and opportunities upon graduation.

Norfolk Public Schools’ focus this year will be to build upon our successes.

We will strive to connect with every single student by engaging our heads, hearts and hands.

We will engage our heads by maintaining a laser-like focus on data. Understanding where every student is in his or her academic growth will allow us to provide the necessary support to help move them forward.

We will engage our hearts in an effort to improve the quality of teaching and learning for all children. Students respond positively when they know adults truly care about them.

Finally, we will engage our hands in educating all students. We stand ready to provide greater levels of support to ensure that every child is successful.

I believe everyone in Norfolk has a role to play in public education. I believe, also, that teamwork is the best approach. Together we can make a profound difference in the lives of our students.

As we approach the school year, I look forward to working with you to help our children realize their hopes and dreams.

Stephen C. Jones can be reached at 628-3830.

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