Welcome to the 2008-2009 school year. As a new superintendent, I am honored to serve this community.

Children are precious and the district staff is dedicated to student success. Excellent schools are important to the quality of our community. Developing lifelong learners who are responsible citizens is the core mission of the school board and the district.

The district hired 61 new teachers from across the nation with impeccable credentials from the most prestigious universities.

More important, they are passionate about student learning.

The graduating class of 2008 was the first class held to the high standards of educational reform. Ninety-two percent of the Class of 2008 met the reading and writing standards of the WASL. Additionally they met new credit requirements in math, culminating projects and five years and beyond planning. The district salutes these graduates as they are the most prepared graduating class in 100 years of graduations.

The district is launching a District Improvement Plan process to develop a three-year plan for the improvement of academic performance of all students. A comprehensive review will involve stakeholder input, data analysis and best practice research which will be the foundation of a district strategic plan.

Raising student performance in mathematics is a focus of the entire district. Over the summer, middle school and high schools teachers participated in intensive algebra staff development in-services. They endeavor to have every student master algebra in middle school and algebra II in high school.

Student enrollment continues to grow but at a slower rate than previous years. The district is projected to serve over 14,500 students this year. During the past five years, the community has supported and the district has built and opened three new schools, including two elementary schools and a comprehensive high school.

All these projects have been completed on time and under budget. Over the next five years, plans for facility improvements will bring all of our schools to the educational specifications of our new facilities. At present, the district is conducting a comprehensive Master Facility Plan review for all of its facilities based upon Citizen Adhoc Recommendations. With continued growth, a new middle school is on the horizon.

The Auburn community is committed to the well being of children. The district has many partners in the mission of creating lifelong learners. The most important partner is the parent. New technology will allow parents to access student progress on a daily basis. Teachers will provide SWIFT class Web sites that will increase opportunities for communications with teachers, parents and students.

Continued partnerships with Auburn Parks and Recreation, Communities in Schools, PTA, White River Museum, and Junior Achievement will provide enriched learning opportunities and field trips for our students.

Together, we can ensure that our students are prepared for the future. It will be a great year.

Dr. Kip Herren is superintendent of the Auburn School District.