The Past Four Years....Planning for the Future

By Debbie Eitner

Many positive steps have been taken in the past four years during my term on the board. I feel we are headed in the right direction with more to accomplish. Below are listed some of the accomplishments of the past four years.

• Content standards set by the district that meet and/or exceed state standards in many areas.
• Implemented "Focus on Success" program. An accountability program committed to continuous improvement of all students.
• Strong professional development program in areas of literacy and math, mentor teachers and new teacher training. Professional development extends to classified personnel as well for growth and advancement.
• API Test results showed growth at all schools. All but one school surpassed growth targets in all areas.
• Implemented class size reduction to 20-1 in grades K - 3 at all elementary schools.
• Strengthened graduation requirements for high school students to better equip them for college and the work force.

• Hired a full time Safety Officer at both middle schools in conjunction with the city of Milpitas.
• Implemented a middle school DARE program at the middle schools, as a partnership with the city, taught by our school safety officers.
• Implemented a disaster drill at the high school, in partnership with the city, to train staff, police and city services in procedures should a major disaster occur.

• Ensured the $65 million bond proceeds went to renovations and new facilities. Our district proudly boasts of a new math/science wing, new multi-purpose rooms at many schools, interior renovations, new heating/cooling systems, etc.
• Due to the timely effort of the staff and the board, our district was able to receive $30 million in matching funds from the State of California to add to our facilities planning.

• Ongoing City/School District meetings to discuss issues such as parking, traffic, DARE, etc.
• Published Bond Updates in the Milpitas Post detailing the renovations and facilities plans as promised during the bond election.
• Secured partnerships with many local companies who partner with the district in the special high school academies, mentor programs, daycare facilities, elementary science camp sponsors and many more areas.
• Held over 20 community meetings to ask for input from the community on topics under discussion by the board.

  This is just a short list of the many things that have been accomplished over the past four years. Continuous improvement, quality teachers and staff, safe campuses and community and business partnerships are my priorities. Let's plan for the future and build on what we have already accomplished.