Ark Valley News - From the desk of the superintendent

From the desk of the superintendent
By Cory Gibson
Last Updated: August 23, 2013

Best school year in our history

Back to school supplies are purchased, the buses are running, and thousands of meals have already been served. We are now a week into the start of the 2013-14 school year.

As tradition would have it, before school officially began, we hosted an all staff welcome back breakfast and meeting. There were three main themes in my presentation to staff:

•The importance of building connections with every student.

•Sharing the district's new vision statement and mission statement as well as goals to be carried out by 2016

•Challenging the staff to make the 2013-14 school year the best in our district's history.

From my perspective, which is backed up by our data, the Valley Center school district provides more opportunities to students than most districts, and our students' achievement ranks greater than most districts in the nation. However, we are not satisfied with our current success, and we wish to always improve.

Over the summer, our board of education adopted a new vision statement for our district. This new statement replaces one that had been in existence for as long as most people can remember. The new vision statement reads: "To Be a Premier School District Known for Excellence in Education, Innovative Instruction, Outstanding Programs, and Dedication to Students."

Having a vision statement is one thing, making it a reality is another. Mario Andretti, retired racecar driver, stated, "Desire is the key to motivation, but it's determination and commitment to an unrelenting pursuit of your goal — a commitment to excellence — that will enable you to attain the success you seek." It is the commitment of the board of education, all USD 262 staff and myself to make this vision a reality.

Through our strategic plan, we have identified three main goals to keep us on track to fulfill our vision. Those three goals center on the following: A safe environment conducive to learning; continuous improvement in learning opportunities for students; and providing the most highly qualified and trained staff available.

As both the leader of this wonderful district and a parent, I wish to share my appreciation of your support as a community member and district patron. Please help us make this the best year in our district's history.

Cory Gibson is superintendent of Valley Center USD 262 school district. He can be reached at 755-7000 or cory.gibson@usd262.net.