Where has the time gone?! As the month of January comes to a close, I’d like to share some rambling winter thoughts…
I’ve said before that I find the drive “up the mountain” to be relaxing and beautiful. The scenery this month, as usual, has been breathtaking; I have to say, though, that on January 8, when I experienced a whiteout from the Gallitzin off ramp to Ebensburg, the trip was breathtaking for another reason altogether. Suffice to say that I’ve gained a new appreciation for the rumble strips that let me know my car was no longer on the highway….
Central Cambria staff and students have begun to intensify their preparation for the PSSA in April. As I visit the schools I witness an impressive variety of positive, meaningful teaching and learning activities taking place in the classrooms. Our staff has attended seminars and training/staff development sessions in order to help students succeed on the PSSA and to continue to meet Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP). I’m excited to see such positive efforts toward this ever-rising challenge.
You may have heard of President Obama’s “Race to The Top” educational monies being competitively sought by 38 states. Pennsylvania has submitted its application for a share of the 4.35 billion dollars, of which our state is eligible to receive up to 400 million dollars. I am happy and proud to report that the CCSD Education Association and the CCSD School Board signed a memorandum of understanding that makes the district eligible to receive a share of the federal grant monies available through the Race to the Top (RTTT) program. Approximately 150 of the state’s school districts and 59 charter schools have submitted Memoranda of Understanding to PDE which, in order to be eligible for any Race to The Top money that may come to Pennsylvania, had to be signed by the union president, the Superintendent, and the Board president. A collaborative, “students first” perspective, shared by all stakeholders, makes an amazing difference when challenges and opportunities present themselves.
And finally, although it seems far away, several staff members have begun to plan a district-wide/community “Celebrate the Arts” fundraiser in May. The goal is to raise enough funds to purchase a new Baby Grand Piano. The CCSD Education Foundation is also supporting this worthwhile project. Look for more information in the coming months.
Enjoy what’s left of January as the winter continues to remind all of us to keep an “eye to the sky.” For my part, one eye will be on the rumble strips!
