Superintendent's Message

“BUILDING THE FUTURE TOGETHER” 2010 Forward

In the words of Will Durant, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.”

Happy New Year! As we enter the 2010 year, we do so with a sense of purpose and optimism. In order to prepare students for the 21st century, ensuring that they have the skills for production, collaboration, and complex problem solving, it is important that we focus on increasing student achievement. Unequivocally, it is imperative that we engage in collaboration with parents, community members, teachers, administration, et al. Put simply, as the Superintendent of Schools, it is my mission to leave no stone unturned until I find the ways to narrow that stubborn academic achievement gap.

To this end, we look forward to a continued partnership with parents and community. I thank you for the support and consideration you have already rendered to the Irvington Public Schools. You have truly been a source of inspiration for your children, our precious students.

Be reminded that research shows that when parents take time to talk with their children about classroom learning – whether they’re discussing books and ideas, preparing for tests and projects, or puzzling over homework – student achievement increases.

I refer to “A New Wave of Evidence: The Impact of School, Family, and Community Connections on Student Achievement” by Karen Mapp and Ann Henderson who analyzed studies of high-achieving students from all backgrounds. They “found that parents of successful students encourage them, talk with them about school, help them plan for higher education, and keep them focused on learning and homework.” This is powerful data that clearly attests to the importance of parental involvement.

We need everyone’s support in increasing student achievement in the Irvington Public Schools. The Superintendent’s focus is on aligning the entire system with the vision of academic achievement and better communication, fostering collaboration, and connection with the Irvington learning communities, and supporting all stakeholders as we work toward improving academic achievement. Our precious students deserve nothing less than our best. Let’s do it!

Dr. E. J. Hasty
Superintendent of Schools