Dear Parents,

Welcome to the 2004-2005 school year at Los Amigos School. We are all excited about being partners with you in the education of your child.

We have been busy this summer developing ways that we can continue to improve the academic learning opportunities for your child. We have been analyzing test scores and working on ways to continue to refine the curriculum and instruction.

We recognize that you are your child's first and most important teacher throughout life. We know that if we too want to help your child get the very best education possible then we must work together with you as full partners.

We can provide the technical side of your child's academic education. Our teachers are well trained in how to teach reading, writing, language, arithmetic, science, social studies, physical education, health, music and art. They are prepared in how to teach all of the subjects in an interesting, motivating and caring way. They are committed and dedicated to providing your child with a quality education.

The school can provide the opportunity to learn but your child also needs the skills necessary to take advantage of those learning opportunities.

You are your child's first and best teacher in the following skill areas necessary for them to access the academic teaching. These are also skills that will help them be successful throughout life:

* The value of wanting to learn what is being taught
* The self discipline to practice it over and over again to know it
* The guidance to always do their best work
* The attitude that if at first you don't succeed, try, try, try again
* The belief that their education is a priority in their life
* Being organized, and neat in their work
* Being a responsible worker

Values and character are best taught by parents. The school role is to reinforce the values, character and work ethic that children learn and develop at home. We are eager to help you as you raise your child in any way we can.

Research shows that the most important variable in a child's success in school is the parents involvement in the child's education.

The following are some ways to be involved in your child's education:

* Talk with your child everyday about specifics of what is going on at school.
* Discuss the completed work the child has brought home.
* Check homework after it is complete.
* Be available to assist with homework as necessary.
* Set high standards for the work that is performed.
* Guide the development of good study skills.
* Stay in touch with the classroom teacher.
* Call the teacher if work is not regularly coming home or homework is not given every night.
* Communicate high expectations to your child.
* Communicate your confidence and pride in the child frequently everyday.
* Proudly display and share the child's work and progress with friends and relatives.
* Attend and participate in school activities as much as possible.
* Join the PTA to symbolize your support for the school activities even if you can't attend events.
* Attend parent conferences in November and March.
* Volunteer in one of our many programs or a classroom if your schedule allows.
* Keep in close touch with the teacher and communicate, communicate, communicate!
* Let us know how we can best meet the needs of your child.

Principal Mariza Naylor