A Letter from the Superintendent
Dr. William Hite, the Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, offers a summer send-off for families. To view the letter in other languages, please click here!
THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PHILADELPHIA
OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT
440 NORTH BROAD STREET, SUITE 301
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA 19130
WILLIAM R. HITE, JR., Ed.D.
SUPERINTENDENT
June 19, 2017
Dear Parents, Guardians, and Families,
What an amazing school year! It is so hard to believe that the 2016 – 2017 school year has come to an end. Congratulations to all the families celebrating milestones this year. High school seniors are graduating and off to their next chapter in life, eighth graders are wondering what high school will be like, and fifth graders are already questioning how to navigate the hallways of middle school.
Our students inspired and made us proud every day. Their efforts and accomplishments are proof of the dedication of our parents, staff and community. Our staff were committed to the care of your children as individuals and learners, providing the highest quality educational programs possible for all students. This was evident every day in our classrooms, on the school buses, in cafeterias, in musical performances, in science fairs, on the athletic fields, in school yearbooks and more.
Parents, guardians and other family members, thank you for your support and continued involvement. The strength of your partnership was immeasurable to our school communities—we are grateful for your time and talents. It truly takes a collaborative effort of families and schools to support the emotional and educational needs of students in our schools.
With summer quickly upon us, I know that you are making plans for your child’s summer vacations and activities. However, the break from school activities often causes students to experience a lag in learning upon returning to school in the fall. Please continue to work with your children this summer: read with them, have them count the change in the money jar, encourage them to make choices and assist with grocery shopping, and encourage good social skills with eye contact and friendly greetings. Philadelphia offers so many learning opportunities, and I encourage you to use them, and enjoy your time with your children this summer.
The 2017 – 2018 school year is sure to be filled with exciting new adventures. The first day of school is September 5. Parents or guardians should register children who will be 5 years old on or before September 1 for kindergarten.
Until then, I wish you and your children a very happy, safe and enjoyable summer!
Sincerely,
William R. Hite, Jr., Ed.D.
