January 9, 2012

Last week, Governor Bob McDonnell announced the Virginia Index of Performance Awards for high performing public schools in the Commonwealth (only 447 schools achieved these awards – 300 fewer than last year). These schools have met ALL State and federal benchmarks for two (2) consecutive years and are making/have made significant progress toward goals for student achievement and expanded educational opportunities set forth by the Governor and the Board. We are pleased to acknowledge that 22% (4 out of 18 schools) attained this level of distinction in Pittsylvania County. Union Hall Elementary School (only 188 schools in the State achieved this award) has been recognized as a State Board of Education’s VIP Excellence Award winner. The State Board of Education’s VIP Competence to Excellence Award went to three (3) Pittsylvania County Schools. Attaining this honor were Chatham Elementary School, Hurt Elementary School and Mt. Airy Elementary School (only 171 schools in the State achieved this award). The pursuit of academic excellence in education is another shining example of why Pittsylvania County Schools is A Great Place to Learn and Work!

One of the goals in my Professional Growth Plan includes spending some time in every Pittsylvania County classroom during the Spring semester. The purpose of my visit will be to become more familiar with school operations, observe instructional skills, ensure that a safe and orderly environment exists for student learning, and verify that a climate of high expectations is present for all students. The tentative schedule is as follows:

Attention parents, students and employees:
On Tuesday, January 10, 2012, beginning at noon, the following services will be temporarily UNAVAILABLE TO YOU for use:

• PowerSchool

• PowerTeacher/Gradebook

• Parent Portal

If everything goes according to plan, it is anticipated that services will be restored by the beginning of the school day on January 11, 2012. Please accept our apologizes in advance for any inconvenience this may cause the school community. Be advised that this does not affect e-mail or Internet access.

On Monday, January 16, 2012, we celebrate the 26^th anniversary of the federal holiday in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Accordingly, all school operations will cease on this date in memory Dr. King, who sought to forge the common ground on which people from all walks of life could join together to address important community issues.