August 2011
Dear Staff and Parents/Guardians
Where does the summer go? District 41 staff has been busy finishing work from the previous year or preparing for the new school year. I have completed my fifth year as District 41 Superintendent. There is so much to celebrate. We have a highly trained and committed staff, fantastic students, supportive parents and communities, and a dedicated Board of Education. By any measure, that is a recipe for success. Achieving Excellence Does Take Everyone!
The 2011 ISAT reading scores increased to 88. Reading has increase 7 points in five years; from 81 in 2007 to 88 in 2011. ISAT math increased 3 points from 89 in 2009 to 92 in 2010 and remains steady at 92 in 2011. ISAT science has increased 5 points in five years; from 85 in 2007 to 90 in 2011.
In 2009, the District identified a Wildly Important Goal (WIG). The WIG for District 41 is 90% student proficiency or higher in all areas. We are very close to achieving this goal. The District has already achieved this level of proficiency in math and science. Challenges remain as the District must continue to increase proficiency for various subgroups, such as students with disabilities.
District 41 has developed and implemented new district-wide curriculum in writing, reading and math. Since professional development and staff support is the key to effective curriculum implementation, the District has literacy coaches and a new technology coach. Over the next two school years, the District will install Interactive Whiteboards in all classrooms. A two week staff Summer Institute for literacy, math, and technology is being held.
Increasing literacy performance remains the highest priority and is the foundation for all District learning initiatives.
The District has completely revised Elementary Student Handbook and Middle School Student Handbook. The handbooks will be available on the District web site for review and reference. Printed copies are available at any time on request. To receive copies just contact the building principal or office staff.
Challenges remain here in our communities. Nearly everyone, including District 41, continues to deal with financial issues and diminishing resource’s. As of June 30, the State of Illinois owed the District $1,161,868 in late payments. Even so, the District has maintained its Financial Recognition status. The challenge for District 41 is to maintain educational quality with fewer resources to accomplish what is really needed.
Thank you in advance for your hard work and dedication to making District 41 a special place for students. Have a great school year.
Sincerely,
Dr. John Van Pelt
Superintendent of Schools
Lake Villa School District #41
