As your superintendent, you have my unwavering commitment to uphold the highest standards of academic excellence and ensure a supportive learning environment that not only nurtures the social and emotional needs of our students, but also pushes the educational boundaries of what is possible. Our students can achieve at the highest levels. To realize this potential, we must foster strong partnerships and alliances among families, teachers, students, and school leaders.

We must acknowledge the collective responsibility of our parents, staff, and students, so we can help students thrive and enthusiastically navigate their futures. Over the school year, I will initiate collaborative conversations with parents, teachers, students, school leaders, and our Board members to inform new approaches to improving attendance, increasing learner engagement, and decreasing distractions that impede learning in schools.

Regular attendance is the cornerstone of academic success. Each missed school day means lost opportunity for learning, growth, and connection. Research shows that students who miss just two days of school per month miss an entire month of instructional time over the school year. This loss of instructional time can significantly impact a student’s academic performance and social development. Let’s make school attendance a top priority and work together to ensure our children are present and ready to learn, every day.

Learning doesn’t stop at the school gates, and we urge you to foster a learning-friendly environment at home. Set a routine to establish a consistent daily schedule that includes time for homework, reading, and other educational activities. Providing a homework box with supplies will help your child to be ready no matter where they do their schoolwork at home.

In our schools this year, you will see a renewed commitment to providing distraction-free instructional time. This means minimizing interruptions during class and ensuring that each minute is used effectively for teaching and learning. We ask for your support in this effort by limiting screen time, especially on social media and establishing clear electronic device boundaries at home.

The well-being of our students is a top priority. Social-emotional growth is just as significant as academic achievement. To support this, please partner with us to foster solid and supportive relationships between students, teachers, and parents. Encourage open communication by creating an environment where students feel comfortable expressing their feelings and concerns.

Active school engagement and two-way communication between parents and teachers are essential for student success. Participate in your child’s education by attending school events, volunteering, and staying informed about classroom activities. Solid lines of communication with your child’s teacher ensure that you are both partners in supporting your child’s learning. Regular updates, parent-teacher conferences, and informal check-ins can help address concerns promptly, and celebrate achievements together.

As we start this new school year, remember that we are stronger together. By working as a team, we can ensure that our children receive the best education possible. Let’s inspire them to reach their full potential, both in the classroom, and beyond. Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Here’s to a successful and fulfilling school year ahead! To read the full letter by Dr. Casimiro and to view the Danbury Public School’s Back to School Guide, please visit https://www.danbury.k12.ct.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/2024-25-BTSG-13-1.pdf 

Anne E. Mead, Ed. D. is the Director of Family, School, and Community Partnerships for Danbury Public Schools. She can be reached at 203-830-6508 or by email at meadan@danburyu.k12.ct.us.