As we begin the 2007-2008 school year, I want to express that it is indeed my privilege and good fortune to serve the Konocti Unified School District as your Superintendent of Schools. While I know that the challenges facing public education today are many, I also know that for us to be highly successful, we need to have a strong team of dedicated and caring professionals working with a supportive community for the benefit of all children. No one person or group can accomplish our mission alone.
Much was accomplished here in Konocti during 2006?2007.
? Student achievement continues to rise. Konocti seniors at Lower Lake High School, Carl? High School, and Lewis School significantly outpaced the state averages in pass rate on the California High School Exit Exam.
? Measure G building projects are in full swing. We opened the new libraries at Burns Valley School, East Lake School, and Lower Lake High School. There is significant modernization happening at Pomo Elementary, Burns Valley, and East Lake. The new gymnasium at Lower Lake High School is under construction and scheduled for completion in the fall of 2008.
? The Lower Lake High School Academic Decathlon Team won the countywide title and competed at the state level in Los Angeles.
? The district secured a second School Library Grant enabling us to add numerous new books to our libraries and provide continuing staff development for library staff.
? New York Times best selling author, Monty Roberts, and his Join-Up? International group have partnered with the district to assist us in consistently and persistently teaching our children that “Violence is Never the Answer.” Monty hosted a team of 16 teachers, administrators, and librarians at his ranch to learn more about his non violent techniques. He has provided each teacher with a draft of his new book, “Monty”s Principles,” and will be back to visit us again this fall.
? A District / School Liaison Team (DSLT) did an extensive review of Oak Hill Middle School and presented systematic restructuring recommendations that were adopted by the Board of Trustees to assist the school in exiting federal Program Improvement status. Oak Hill has secured state funding to reduce class size to approximately 25:1 and is opening the school year in small groups of 4 teachers and 100 students.
? Interactive videoconferencing equipment is available at all school sites.
We have installed a new network providing higher speed internet access and 17 “Promethean” interactive white boards were installed and in use in classrooms throughout the district.
? Lower Lake High School expanded the Algebra Academy to include Geometry, hosted college recruiters, financial aide workshops and more. Many graduates of the Class of 2007 have been accepted to and will be attending 4 year colleges this fall.
? The district Web site has been revitalized. Visit us at www.konoctiusd.lake.k12.ca.us for current information about calendars, bus routes, cafeteria menus, complete school board agendas with full background documents and more.
Improving student achievement continues to remain our number-one priority here in Konocti. To us, this means more than just test scores; it is a well-rounded individual who has had opportunities to learn and grow in areas of arts, athletics, and school activities. It is sending our youth out into the world, prepared for their lives, prepared to achieve their goals and dreams. To that end, we are in the planning stages for a new vocational charter school that will prepare interested students for employment in four career pathways: welding, construction, automotive technology, and culinary arts and hospitality.
If we are serious about improving achievement for each and every student in our district, then I realize that every person — superintendent, board members, staff and parents must reach out to work cooperatively with our community to get the job done.
As a resident of Clearlake and committed community member, I have found just that kind of effort. Everywhere I go, I meet caring and dedicated people who are committed to the benefit of our young people. I can say with confident assurance that “Konocti loves its children!”
In my service as Superintendent, I will be guided by the following values:
? Open, honest communication and sharing of information.
? Building trust.
? Being accountable.
? Support for schools and the welfare of children in the entire community.
? Focus on improving student achievement.
? Planning for the future (finances, facilities, and curriculum).
? Guide all decisions by “What is best for the students?”
During the 2007 ? 2008 school year, we will be continue to commit our resources and energies to the implementation of our long term strategic plan. Veteran music educator Cydney Dixon has returned home to Lake County to take charge at Lower Lake High School and Oak Hill Middle School as our new band and choir director. We are beginning an elementary school music program under the leadership of Martha Miller. Veteran football coach Stan Weiper has come over to Lower Lake High School from Kelseyville. Our administration has committed to hire only the best teachers and staff and we are proud of all of our new teachers joining the team this year.
Our commitment as district administration is to provide strong, positive leadership to educate our students for the 21st Century. We will work hard to focus our energies in a positive direction. We respect and value staff, parent and community input. I look forward to this year and the opportunity to listen, learn, and work together. Have a wonderful school year!
Editor”s Note: Louise Nan, Ed.D. is Superintendent of the Konocti Unified School District.
