Reflections on the school year

Talk about it

The school year will be concluding within the next week and it is hard for me to believe that I have had the pleasure and opportunity to be a part of the Dickinson Public Schools.

At times it seemed like a whirlwind as I continue to become familiar with the School District and the state of North Dakota. As I approach the end of my first year in the Dickinson School District, there are a few thoughts and events I would like to share with the community regarding the school and the past 11 months.

- In each building and position across the Dickinson School District, it is staffed with employees who are dedicated to the mission of the school district to provide the best educational opportunities and services possible. The community should be thankful for the dedication and commitment of the school employees.

- The School District is experiencing unanticipated enrollment predominately grades kindergarten to sixth. This is a positive development that stems the tide of a declining district-wide student population but also presents some challenges.

- It has been necessary to temporarily relocate four fifth grade classrooms to Berg Elementary which will present some transition issues for parents, students and staff.

- The district is adding classroom space at Lincoln and Jefferson elementary schools to accommodate the new enrollment.

- A district-wide Parent Advisory Committee was formed this school year to improve communication between the School District and parents. This committee conducted eight meetings this year and started to clearly establish its role in the district.

- According to the preliminary state reports, all buildings in the Dickinson School District achieved Adequate Yearly Progress as required by The No Child Left Behind Act.

- There are areas where the district needs to improve in student achievement and this will require the continued focus of all students and staff.

- Three seats on the School Board are up for election and the district is fortunate to have four individuals interested in serving the school and community.

I hope that this school year has been productive and positive for the students and parents of the Dickinson Public Schools.

As we are nearing the summer and continue our preparation for the upcoming school year, it is one I approach with excitement and optimism and I continue to be thankful for the opportunity to be part of this School District. As our new year begins in August, if there is anything the district or I can do to assist in the transition to the new school year please do not hesitate to contact me. Finally, if you have any questions about this or any other issue in the Dickinson School District, please do not hesitate to contact me.

— Sullivan is the Dickinson Public Schools superintendent. E-mail him at douglas.sullivan@dickinson.k12.nd.us or call him at 701-456-0002.

Tags: dickinson public schools, opinion, columns