The Yakima School District will welcome an estimated 14,000 students on August 30, the first day of the 2010-11 school year. As we open our schools I would like to highlight key factors in the success of our school system for the coming year.

The first is the belief that every student counts and can learn. Every student is unique. Our educators aim to tailor instruction and give each student the individual attention they need to succeed. Right now, educators are using new technologies and research-based instructional practices to promote students’ academic and social progress. And this trend promises to continue -- increasingly, our Yakima schools will individualize quality instruction to meet each student’s needs and ensure each student’s success.

Second are high standards that matter. It is now widely agreed we need rigorous and relevant academic standards to prepare students for a fast-changing world. Standards in math and reading are keys, but we also are highlighting critical areas such as science, social studies, English, languages and the arts. Our instruction should fully engage students -- we see a future of fewer lectures and more ways students can apply their knowledge to solving problems. Students must learn skills that prepare them for the real world, such as teamwork and critical thinking. Business and education leaders also tell us it is important for students to learn about skills for finances plus healthy work and life habits. Clearly, our students have to have a wide range of knowledge and skills to successfully navigate 21st Century life.

Third are community connections. Students have more success when schools forge a strong relationship with students’ families. That means our schools have to do more to reach out to truly engage families. Our schools should also have ongoing relationships with local businesses, service, and civic groups that can offer support and mentoring. Public schools are just that -- public! So, people deserve transparency from their schools -- they also need to be asked to help out and support the community’s children as they grow and learn.

Next is school environment. It is agreed that every one of our schools should be a safe, welcoming and inspiring place to learn. This is not just about the issue of safety and discipline, which of course are essential to good schools. Safe and inspiring also mean a lively and stimulating school environment with after-school enrichment and activities to meet student needs and interests. When you enter one of our schools, you should immediately recognize the openness, hope, and possibility where parents and students are valued.

And the final key factor for your consideration. We want a school community of professionals who can more thoroughly serve each student. We aim to make great decisions about improving our schools and helping every student succeed. We cannot do that unless we continually reflect on our practice, learn about best practices, and incorporate the best research strategies in our classrooms.

I strongly believe that these five points will serve us well as we work together this year to continue to improve education for each of the children we serve. This is more than a collection of ideas -- it is the way we intend to conduct business in our schools this year!

Elaine Beraza, Superintendent
Yakima School District