The Saugus Way: Facing Our Challenges, Defining Our Opportunities
Public Education is at a crossroads. Never before have we been so challenged by claims that the public schools are failing to meet the needs of all students. Never before have we experienced such cuts to the very programs designed to meet the needs of our students. We have two choices. We can wring our hands and talk about the terrible things that are being done to us, or we can take charge of that over which we have control, educate our communities on the great programs we continue to offer and look for new opportunities to develop exciting alternative programs. We have 15 schools, five are National Blue Ribbon schools and all but our two newest schools are California Distinguished Schools.
In our district, we talk about “The Saugus Way”. Everyone understands that means setting high standards and working together with mutual respect at every level to achieve academic and personal success for every child. As we deal with unprecedented economic challenges and budget cuts, the phrase “working together” takes on new meaning. How we treat one another becomes paramount when dealing with sensitive issues. We define ourselves individually and collectively by how we behave in times of adversity.
In response to parent interest and rigorous standards, all of our schools now offer full day kindergarten. Each of our 15 schools continues to define and market its unique culture and programs. We are completing our first year at West Creek Academy, an open enrollment school with a focus on music and the performing arts and a partnership with California Institute of the Arts. Through music, a universal language, we are making connections to other countries, classrooms and students around the world. All of our schools are entering into similar unique partnerships that enhance their programs.
We invite you to visit our schools and become a partner as we strive for “excellence in elementary education.”