Kathy Smith, Sully District

Works For You. Works For Kids.

Letter to the Editor:

Privilege to Serve on School Board

September 18, 2003

To the Editor:
A new school year is underway and Back-to-School nights are in full swing. This is my 14th consecutive year attending Back-to-School nights as a parentand I find it the most important night of the school year. I encourage you to take this opportunity to meet your child's teacher, principal, and school staff. They work very hard to ensure a successful learning experience for each child in their care. During my first 18 months in office, I met with every school principal in Sully District to learn their needs and concerns. At Centre Ridge Elementary we were able to improve the safety around the school by adding lighting on the street.

This year also brings other improvements for our children. A new school, Colin Powell Elementary, was opened in September. We were able to begin to reduce class size in certain areas. There is still more work in this area, but we are on the right path. All-day kindergarten was implemented at
Brookfield Elementary School. The average of our high school's SAT scores is higher than the national average. In Fairfax County Public Schools, we are
doing good things for students.

I believe that children learn best when their parents and teachers support them. Part of my job as your school board representative is to support
parents and teachers. This includes making sure they all have the materials and information necessary to do the best job. This year's budget includes a salary increase for teachers. Again, there is more work needed in this area, and I will continue to fight for competitive teacher salaries.

This year when you go to vote there will be a bond referendum for the
Fairfax County Public Schools to support new construction and renovations in our school buildings. There is funding for a 24-classroom addition to Westfield High School and a 14-room modular for Chantilly High School.
Please learn about the bond and share this information with your friends and neighbors.

It is important for me to remain accessible, and I continue to be committed to responding to your concerns. My email address is kathy.l.smith@fcps.edu
and I can be reached at 703-246-3062. Please let me know what's on your mind. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you and your children. It is a privilege that I take seriously every day.

Kathy L. Smith
FCPS School Board Member - Sully District
Chantilly

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