A Back-to-School Message from Superintendent Hite

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

2017-2018 Welcome Back-to-School Message from Superintendent Hite

Dear School District of Philadelphia Parents/Guardians:

Welcome to the 2017-2018 school year! I look forward to another great year of teaching and learning in all of our schools. We have made great progress as a district and it is up to all of us to keep that momentum going in the new school year.

We recognize to be successful in school, our students need support both at home and in school. We have excellent teams of principals, teachers and staff in every school working together to use the most effective instructional practices and to strengthen our programs and services.

Children can only reach their full potential if they are in school. Students who miss more than two school days in September have a greater chance of becoming chronically absent the rest of the year. Make your child an attendance hero this year by helping them attend school every day, on time.

Our schools have the support of a dynamic team of school district leaders and staff who are all committed to offering every student a world-class education. We ask that you guide and support your child’s learning by ensuring that he/she:

Attends school daily and arrives on time, well rested ready for learning
Completes all homework assignments given by teachers
Reads daily to develop a love for reading and to improve literacy skills
Shares school experiences with you so you know what is happening in their school
Talks to you if he/she needs help in any area or subject
Knows that you expect him/her to try their best everyday

I encourage you to contact your child’s teachers and counselors, early in the year. All school-based staff share the goal of helping your child succeed. We have specialized staff at every school who can help you access the resources available to you and your family. Family Engagement Liaisons in our schools are a great resource!

My commitment to partnering with you, our staff, and our community to support the success of every student remains strong. Working together, we will continue our momentum and progress and ensure students become life-long learners.

Thank you for all you do for your child and their future. I hope you have a great school year.

William R. Hite, Jr., Ed.D.