September 2022 Governing Board President's Letter

Innovation: [ in-uh-vey-shuhn ] n.  1) a value in the PVSchools Strategic Plan: “We nurture creativity, curiosity, and strategic thinking through dynamic learning experiences.”  2) introduction of new things or methods.
 
Teachers throughout our District take pride in challenging their students by designing engaging activities and offering real-world educational experiences. 
 
When studying history, students might experience a living wax museum in elementary school, an historical reenactment in middle school, or a “history rap-battle” in high school.  In the arts, they may find themselves engaged in cross-disciplinary projects and inter-school performances. Younger math students might do some “pumpkin math” this October or celebrate “Pi Day” in March.  Learning goes beyond worksheets and pen-to-paper assignments.
 
Teachers are bringing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) to classrooms to encourage students to solve problems collaboratively in dynamic team experiences. Students are gaining courage and confidence in their academic pursuits and are flexing their critical thinking skills daily. Exposing students to innovative learning throughout their school years encourages them to find a passion and work hard to achieve their goals, each on their own Journey of Excellence. 
 
Later in this newsletter, you are going to be introduced to the PVSchools 2023 National Merit Semifinalists (we had the honor of meeting these students at a recent Governing Board meeting); you will learn about the upcoming College & Career Fairs (so students have diverse opportunities post-graduation); and you will be amazed when you read about a student-turned-entrepreneur as a result of a class assignment!
 
Perhaps their stories will encourage you to innovate a bit in your own life.  Because as has been attributed to Thomas Edison, “There’s a way to do it better - find it.”
 
​​On behalf of the Governing Board,
 
Susan Matura
President