June 3, 2008
Dear Small School families,
You can tell that school is almost over with the many bikes on the front lawn (love it!), tennis nets up, the sprigs of lilacs students bring to us, the many outdoor field trips, and the concerts and shows highlighting our many talents. I know it is the end of the school year by the number of meetings, and the transitional activities, such as meeting incoming kindergarten families (all 52 of them!), and the fifth grade dinner celebration. Did I mention in my last newsletter how ready the fifth graders are to be out of here?! It is also a time to thank the many people who have made this a stellar educational year here at Small School.
We have only one retirement at Small this year, but it is an important one. David Cidorowich has been a special education teacher in South Portland for 25 years with 21 of those years at Small. I speak for the entire staff when I say that his expertise, calm and quiet demeanor, and dry sense of humor will be missed. We are proud of our work with exceptional students and we owe a lot of that fine work to Mr. Cidorowich. He never addresses a child as presenting with weaknesses rather a child with endless potential. He understands his job is to know the child intimately as a learner, teach to his/her strengths, and target areas needing growth. He is systematic and holistic in his approach. Students learn and flourish in his presence. He imparts the best gifts of all: self esteem, courage, and academic skills. Mr. C. we thank you for all you have done and wish you unending happiness and health in your retirement.
Another retirement of sorts is this year’s PTA executive board: Ross Little- President, Lisa Burns – Vice-President, Treasurer – Andrea Brown, and Jim Frederick – Secretary. As usual, the PTA has presented us with a ton of money toward educational enrichment, a variety of enrichment and learning opportunities, and loads of fun. The PTA’s efforts, energy, and enthusiasm are immeasurable and hugely appreciated. Small School brags that it has the most talented and giving parents around. We would not be so enriched and successful without the PTA. A special and heartfelt thank you goes out... Continue Reading
