My name is Shari Biscotti and I have been the Cucamonga Elementary School principal since 2004-2005. I am very honored to have this opportunity to serve you and your children. I will make every effort to continue to ensure a safe and effective learning environment for our students. I am very familiar with The Cucamonga School District. In 1988 I began here as a student teacher. I taught Head Start for the District and was then assigned a fifth grade teaching position. I have also been the Program Coordinator and Title I teacher for many years, assistant principal and most recently, the principal.

I believe strongly in parent and community involvement and view parents as our partners in their child’s education. I have an “open door” policy and will be available to both you and your children. It is my goal this year to get to know each and every one of you. I will be sponsoring several events throughout the year in order to make this happen. I will continue to keep your valued traditions as well as create new ones.

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.You are your child's first and best teacher in the following skill areas necessary for them to access the academic learning. 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

Research shows that the most important variable in a child's success in school is the parent’s 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.

Also, keep in mind that 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.

This handbook has been developed to acquaint you with the services, policies, rule, and procedures of our school. Please keep it handy as a reference throughout the school year. The calendar provided was established in July and is subject to change. Please watch for communications from the school announcing dates and/or event changes and updates.

If you have any further questions or suggestions please call or visit the school. If your question is concerning class events or instruction, please ask to speak to your child’s teacher. If in involves the overall program, curriculum, or activities please contact me directly. I am looking forward to a great year and getting to know each and every one of you.

Sincerely,

Shari Biscotti, Principal
Cucamonga Elementary School