Everett, Wash.
Published: Saturday, June 20, 2009

GRANITE FALLS

Thanks to community, school staff

 Thank you to the Granite Falls community for a warm welcome. Attending the end of the year award programs, talent shows, poetry nights, concerts and graduation activities was the perfect way to close the school year -- seeing firsthand the highlights of student success!

This has been a year of many accomplishments, from small to large. We had individual staff and student achievements inside and outside of the classrooms including local, state and national recognition. We adopted a new math curriculum at the high school, an administrator became a published author and the school board adopted a mission, vision and strategic plan that will keep our focus on instruction.

Even with all the good news, it was a very unusual year due to the severe budget issues we faced. Looking back throughout the entire process, I am so thankful for the staff and community support and input. You shared suggestions and concerns; you asked questions and provided solutions. Together, we did the absolute best we could and can now move forward and keep student achievement as our priority goal. I am confident we are on the right path to track student progress, to help staff deliver instruction with fidelity, and to maintain a culture of collaboration with students, staff and the community.

It's been wonderful getting to know so many of you this past year. It is a pleasure to be part of a remarkable group of staff members, outstanding students, and involved parents and community members.

Karen Koschak
Superintendent, Granite Falls School District
© 2009The Daily Herald Co., Everett, WA