Dear Parents,

Welcome to the 2011-2012 school year! The staff at Elma Elementary is looking forward to working with your child(ren) this year.  We have a sincere desire to see each child discover and develop each of the special gifts they bring to our building. Our goal is to create an environment that will help each and every student believe in these gifts while at the same time understand that each of us is a unique and valuable part of our school community. We cannot do this alone.  There is no one who knows your child like you do and our ability to reach this goal depends largely upon your willingness to positively involve yourself in your student’s education both at home and in our building.  Together we can make this year a tremendous time of growth and celebration.

At Elma Elementary School, we believe in developing the whole child. We must strive to reach academic standards without losing sight of the importance of relationships and good citizenship. An environment that values, teaches, and models honesty, respect, integrity, responsibility, and kindness will help each child develop the skills they need to be productive and successful in today’s world.

In order to learn, students need to be and feel safe:  physically, emotionally, and mentally.  Our entire staff has worked diligently to provide your student(s) with a nurturing environment that keeps safety at all levels first and foremost. More importantly, each child must understand their role and responsibility for developing this safe environment. The district and school expectations that support a safe environment will be discussed at assemblies and in each student’s classroom. Disciplinary actions are designed to bring about a change of behavior that will maintain this safe learning environment. 

Please review the Student Handbook links and discuss it with your child(ren).  You will need to fill out and return the following forms: yellow enrollment card,  P.E. permission slip, health information, and the internet policy.

Questions or concerns are a vital part of making our school a better place to live and learn.  Please feel free to call or stop in if you have anything you would like to share. We value your input! Keep in mind the importance of communicating to the school any address or telephone changes you may have during the school year. Thanks for making this year our best ever. You are the best!

Sincerely,

Mark Keating

Elma Elementary Principal