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SUPERINTENDENT'S |
January 2008
The Big Picture and the Details
On the “Big Picture” level it was very exciting to receive notice from US News and World Report that Mount Baker High School has been acknowledged among the top schools in the country. The process that was used to rank the schools looked at over 18,000 schools nationwide. The top schools were determined to serve all its students well and be showing academic performance well above the average across the state. While it was fulfilling to receive the notice of MBHS’ recognition, it was actually no surprise. Every staff member in Mount Baker School District is dedicated to meeting the needs of every student and staff is deeply committed to working together towards the continuous improvement of our educational program. Our schools are closely connected in a district-wide effort to make sure our students have an excellent experience. Compared to other districts our schools are showing excellent performance; nevertheless, this has in no way diminished our sense of urgency for improvement.
On the “Detail Level”, in the midst of the District’s effort to manage the budget during increasing financial challenges, the time has come for us to ask Mount Baker voters to renew the Maintenance and Operations Levy. Our current 4-year levy will expire at the end of 2008. The Levy provides for about 18% of our operating budget and funds much of our program that makes Mount Baker unique. The Superintendent’s Advisory Committee combined efforts with a Levy Task Force and has provided input for me to bring to the School Board. After Board approval I will begin to publicize the District’s intentions regarding the Levy this spring.
~Rick Gantman~
