December 2010

Greetings Daniel Bagley Families,

Social and emotional wellness is a key priority for our students here at Daniel Bagley. Collectively, we are committed to serving and fostering a safe environment where the “whole” child thrives as a learner. Fundamental operating beliefs at Bagley include respect, grace, and courtesy towards others. Daniel Bagley is committed to being a school where students and staff can experience JOY while learning.

I am elated to report that every classroom has started our new Steps to Respect and Second Steps programs. These programs are research-based and proven to be an effective tool to help students build more supportive relationships with each other. Students learn a variety of relationship skills, including strategies for making and keeping friends and steps for joining activities. Also, Steps to Respect teaches children the skills of recognizing bullying, using assertive behaviors to respond to bullying, and reporting bullying. Classroom lessons also teach empathy and positive social norms. As the leader, I am committed to working collaboratively with all partners to ensure Daniel Bagley remains a safe climate and a bully free environment.

Good News! Daniel Bagley has been recognized as a School of Distinction for outstanding academic performance in reading and mathematics. We’re in the top 5% of the highest continual “academic growth” schools in the state! Daniel Bagley was also rated a 5 out of 5 in the Seattle Public School District’s new School Reports. This rating is achieved by 3rd-5th graders’ absolute performance and growth performance on the state MSP test. Our staff will soon be honoring our students for their hard work over the years. Congratulations!

Please feel free to stop by to introduce yourself at any time. I have an open door policy and want to get to know each family, grow together, and receive continuous feedback. I sincerely look forward to meeting and collaborating with everyone.

Again, it is an honor to serve the Daniel Bagley Community.