Dear Silver Lake Families,

As the start of a new school year approaches, I know there can be a mixture of excitement and anxiety for both students and parents. A new school year brings new teachers, new classrooms, new routines, and sometimes a few butterflies! Please know that those feelings are completely normal. Whether your child is entering kindergarten, starting junior high, or beginning their senior year, each new school year brings its own opportunities.

It is important to us to ensure every student feels welcomed, safe, and ready to learn. We want our students to walk through our doors each morning knowing there are adults here who care about them and believe in them. If your child is nervous, encourage them to talk about those feelings, ask questions, and remember that they don't have to have everything figured out on the first day. We will be there to help them find their way.

As we prepare for the first day, I also want to remind families to take a few minutes to review safety routines with children who walk, ride a bicycle, or use a scooter to get to school. Practice the route together, review how to safely cross streets and intersections, and remind students to stay alert and watch for vehicles. A few minutes of practice now can help build confidence and establish good habits for the school year. The city has taken measures to make sure crosswalks are painted and reflective. We appreciate all the efforts they have taken to ensure the safety of our students.

Just as important, I hope you're enjoying this final day of summer with your children. Take a deep breath, take the first-day pictures, and embrace the excitement the first day always brings. We are incredibly grateful for the trust you place in us each day when you send your children to us. We don't take that responsibility lightly.

We are ready to welcome our students back, and we can't wait to see them tomorrow!

Let's have a great year and GO EAGLES!

Sincerely,

Mark Farrar

Superintendent

Silver Lake Schools