Dear First and Second Grade Families,
As you are all aware, we live in a rapidly growing area. I have worked all summer and these last few days to advocate for our students and the staff regarding class size. We sent out a survey at the beginning of August asking about students returning to Pleasant View. The survey data and attendance numbers from the first two days of school were shared with the district office regarding the student population at PVE.
Although it is not the ideal time since school has just begun, I have finally received the additional teachers we need to lessen the class sizes in grades 1 and 2. We know bonds have been formed, comfort has been found, and routines have been established, but we feel the grade level teams are ready to help with the transition for all students concerning the change. I know it often feels difficult to move students to a new teacher after the start of the year; however, I believe students should have classrooms with reduced numbers, allowing teachers to serve our students better academically and socially.
We know that every family has thoughts and opinions on how this process should happen or whether their child should be affected. As a staff, we have talked extensively about what to do and what is best for students. Therefore, we have decided that grade-level teams will make five balanced classrooms as if they were preparing for the start of the year. We ask that if you would like to volunteer to have your child moved, please email your child's teacher to let them know.
Over the next week, we will work through the following step.
- A first-grade position will be posted for the fifth class. (This has been done.)
- We have two experienced teachers joining PVE in the first and second grades. They will be making the shift from their current position over to PVE and begin setting up rooms. (Please note that we will be moving the first grade teacher into Miss McLean's classroom to allow Mrs. Reed to resume her position at PVE.)
- Grade levels will build five new class lists this week.
- Interviews will begin as soon as we have top-quality candidates. (Please note that we will not rush this process. First grade will remain overcrowded until the right candidate comes along. Your children and their education matter to us!
- Start dates for the hired teachers are coming, and a letter will be sent to parents who have a child moving classrooms. The message will also contain a welcome letter from the teacher hired to take the class.
- New teachers will send out an invite for a Meet and Greet with parents and students.
I appreciate your understanding during this process. The staff and I intend to make this as smooth as possible for your children and families. As soon as we have more information regarding a starting date, parents will be notified.
Sincerely,
Amy Senethavilay
