Dear Parents and Friends,   Oakwood’s motto for the year is “Planting Seeds for Success.”  The staff and students plan to build our academic achievements in a safe, friendly and academically enriched environment.  This year Oakwood has two morning and two afternoon Pre-K and ECI sessions.  The school also includes three full day kindergarten classes and two classes of grades 1-5.  Four new state-of-the-art early childhood classrooms are being added to the existing building.   Oakwood’s instructional goals include improvement of every student’s reading, writing, math and science achievement.  The School Improvement Team (SIT) meets regularly to review student progress and plan instruction to minimize the achievement differences among our student groups as identified by the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB); and, to celebrate school successes.  Last year Oakwood made Annual Yearly Progress (AYP) on the state assessments because of the dedicated work of parents, teachers and students.   Since Oakwood qualifies as an Academic Achievement for All (AAA) school we are privileged to have a AAA math teacher and an interventionist who work with students and staff to promote student progress.  Our Talent Development teacher also provides challenging assignments for the students.  This year the TD focus will be on reading.   As a community school we provide many opportunities for families to have fun and to learn.  This year we will continue the process of becoming a “Green School” and a “School of Character” while enjoying other events such as “Donuts for Dad,” “Muffins for Mom” and “Get Your Brain in Gear.”  Oakwood’s PTA provides valuable input and support for school programs.  The PTA also works closely with our Staff Volunteer Liaisons.   We value everyone’s contributions and achievements.  Last year several Oakwood students proudly earned first place in the County Science Fair.  All students in grade 4 scored 100% on the spring state math assessment.  The Oakwood staff is committed to building responsible students who demonstrate initiative, respect, uniqueness, peace, orderliness, kindness, courage, joy and patience.  The Oakwood staff and I are certain that this year promises to be an outstanding year for everyone.