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Message from Superintendent Dr. Linda Hicks

The start of a new school year is always an exciting time!  This year, especially, brings forth a promise of hope and dynamic experiences of learning for all students.  This “New Beginning” is a renewed sense of discovery and endless possibilities!

I am very encouraged to begin my second year as Superintendent of the Battle Creek Public Schools.  I thank each and every one of you for your input and support during last year.  Over the past 12 months I saw and experienced the great potential in this school community.  Even better, we know the best is yet to come!

For 2011-12, we make the commitment to develop Battle Creek Public Schools as a progressive, forward-looking school district.  We will strive to make learning an engaging and rewarding experience for all students.  Our commitment is to the “whole child” – academic, social, physical, and emotional – as the way to help meet the needs children have to discover, grow, and develop as healthy and responsible young adults.

The mission, vision and goals can be summarized in the following categories:

·         Student Achievement

·         Successful Completion of High School

·         Develop the well-being of the “Whole Child”

·         Communication with parents and stakeholders

·         District Facilities

These goal areas will provide direction for a quality and equitable education for all students.

 As we look forward to this next school year, there are many new initiatives in Battle Creek Public Schools.  We will open the Dudley STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) School, Ninth Grade Academy at Central High School, restructured “Teaming Model”  middle schools, enhanced REACH (advanced and accelerated) Program, and a newly designed high school Alternative Education Program.  In addition, we will implement an aligned Intervention Specialist (Social Work) Program that will provide additional support and resources for our students and families.

I am also pleased to announce the selection of new administrators for the district.  These experienced professionals were selected through a careful recruiting and interviewing process to ensure they could provide the vision, leadership, and energy we need to help move our district forward.  Please join me in welcoming these educators to their new roles:

  • Kathy Mohney, Principal - Fremont Elementary
  • Seth Parker, Principal - LaMora Park Elementary
  • Sarah Scott, Principal - Valley View Elementary
  • Toni McClenney, Principal - Verona Elementary

 

  • Luke Perry, Principal; Harvey Crawley, Assistant Principal - Northwestern Middle School
  • Garth Cooper, Principal; Ben Rodgers, Assistant Principal - Springfield Middle School

 

  • Coby Fletcher, Principal - Battle Creek Central High School
  • Anita Harvey, Ninth Grade Academy Principal - Battle Creek Central High School
  • Michael Van Hoven, Athletic Director - Battle Creek Central High School


The 2011 -12 school year promises to be one of the most unique and exciting years in the long history of the Battle Creek Public Schools.  Our newly-developed Strategic Plan will guide our work in creating dynamic learning environments where we believe in success for all.  We need the support of our school community as we “raise the bar” for high expectations and student achievement!  One way you can help us to grow and improve is by completing the survey that was mailed to you and returning it by August 26, 2011 in the stamped envelope we have provided.  Your input is one of the most important parts of our success.

The opening day of school is Tuesday, September 6 and it is a half day.  Please check the website for your school’s Open House and for the Orientation Days scheduled at our middle and high schools.  The orientation days are important for high school and middle school students to become familiar with the changes in the schools and for them to receive a copy of their schedules before the start of the first day of school.  Additionally, if you have any questions regarding transportation for your child please contact the Transportation Department for any questions or concerns.

Again, I want to say what an honor it is for me to serve as Superintendent.  I energetically embrace the principle of “New Beginnings” for the Battle Creek Public Schools.  Our aim is to build a remarkable organization for teaching and learning that meets the needs of all students and operates as a model for other districts.  Though we will experience many challenges, we know there is great power in the spirit of working together for the success of all students.  I look forward to the many fantastic things we will experience this year.  Please join me in building an exceptional school district that not only serves the needs of students, but also becomes a beacon of light in our community.

 New Beginnings in Battle Creek Public Schools!

I Look Forward to Seeing You Soon,

Sincerely,

Linda Hicks, Ed.D

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Dr. Linda Hicks, Superintendent
Phone: 269-965-9465 work