Whittier Union High School District Superintendent Sandy Thorstenson listens to state Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell Monday before the traditional welcome back meeting for certificated and classified district employees at Whittier High School.
Story Created:
Sep 2, 2010 at 10:27 AM PST
Story Updated:
Sep 2, 2010 at 10:27 AM PST
WHITTIER — State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell and Assemblyman Charles Calderon were on hand Monday as the Whittier Union High School District held its traditional welcome back meeting for certificated and classified employees.
The event was held at the Whittier High School Vic Lopez Auditorium and was attended by district staff, administrators and board members.
“The beginning of the school year is an important time to bring all staff and faculty together to reinforce the district’s vision and goals,” said Jeff Baird, the president of the school board. “Day One is a working meeting, where the entire district focuses on instruction together. With State Superintendent O’Connell and [Assemblyman] Calderon participating this year, our staff also received valuable input and recognition of their accomplishments.”
The event featured welcoming comments from Baird, Calderon, O’Connell and district Superintendent Sandy Thorstenson. A video highlighting students from all campuses was played at various points during the event.
“Whittier Union is one of the top school districts we have in the state of California and the work you are doing should be shared with others so as to replicate your success,” O’Connell said. “The progress and improvement you have shown across the board, in raising test scores, closing the educational gap among students and so much more, is truly remarkable.”
“As teachers you are among the most important people in a student’s life,” Calderon said. “Each day, you help provide the academic foundation for success that will make certain our students are able to stand out in this competitive work force. And you do it as a team, with strong leadership and intensive follow through.”
In her message, Thorstenson addressed budget issues and district successes in student achievement, with 99 percent of district seniors passing the California High School Exit Exam and consistent improvements in the district’s Academic Performance Index scores.
“Our efforts at collaboration will continue to increase with intensity, the broad range of work we do will be for the coherent purpose of improving student knowledge, skills and success, and our goal will be to better focus upon this work, not be distracted by other new programs or initiatives,” Thorstenson said.
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