Hello: On behalf of all the members of the Board of Trustees, thank you for taking the time to learn more about our school district. We have set some exciting goals for 2008. Let me share a few.
 
 Teacher development is a core value and a major objective. We are currently taking all of our teachers through the Apple Institute, an in-depth technology training program oriented to class room instruction. A majority of our teachers have completed this program and we hope to have all teachers trained in the next couple of years. If you get a chance, please ask teachers about this program and the exciting things they are doing.

 We, along with the other districts in Marin County, will be utilizing Professional Learning Communities to help focus student learning. One of the key aspects of this program is collaborative teams of teachers that will focus on what the kids are learning rather than what the school has taught. A simple change but a significant one that we believe will improve the education of the kids. To accomplish this, we also need a better understanding of what our kids are learning. So we have undertaken a project to significantly improve how we track what the kids have learned. A new system has been installed called DataDirector and our administrators and teachers are receiving training on how to use data to target instruction and interventions, as needed.
 
 We all know that getting families involved in the education process is one of the keys to success. This presents a challenge for both of us. Families need to look at their busy lives and determine how they can be involved. The challenge for the Dixie District is working on outreach programs to make sure all families have an opportunity to get involved.
 
 There are many more exciting things to talk about but I will stop here. If you would like to learn more, please let me know and I will be happy to discuss further. Please feel free to contact me at any time with any issues or concerns. My home phone is (415) 491- 4960 and my e-mail address is bruceabbott@sbcglobal.net .
Sincerely,

 
Bruce Abbott, President
Dixie School District Board of Trustees