“It’s goin’ be a hot time in the old town tonight!” has been the theme for students and staff across the district!  Despite the incredible heat-wave, excitement has been abundant as special services teachers prepared for the arrival of students on Thursday. And despite the heat-wave and because of much planning, it was one of the calmest “first day” I have seen. 

There are several new faces in the special services department this year and, to make them welcomed, a cook-out for staff and their families was hosted on August 6^th, another especially hot evening.  Assistant Director of Special Services, Amy Stroder, graciously took on the grilling in the heat and still managed to meet and greet old and new friends.  Process coordinator Janet Turner grilled along beside her and kept the burgers going for the approximately 80 people in attendance. Process coordinators Janet Simmons and Susie Thieman, along with our wonderful secretary Melissa Baker and daughter, Shelby, helped make this special evening a success. As we worked side-by-side preparing the meal, it was an indictor of the teamwork that is being demonstrated daily from this office on behalf of staff, parents, and, especially, our students with special needs.  It is going to be a great year! 

Teamwork and trust are the priorities for our department and both have been abundant as I visited classrooms.  Experienced special services teachers mentoring our “newbies” was observed throughout the district as IEPs were reviewed, schedules made, and nerves calmed.  Relationships are being formed which will support student learning.  It is going to be a great year!!