Full Menu
Search

Superintendent’s March 1, 2023 Update

Superintendent's Updates logo

Español

Dear APS Families,

As we begin a new month, I want to provide you with an update on Summer School, reminders about Parent-Teacher Conferences, Social-Emotional Learning, and upcoming March recognitions.

Summer School 2023: Registration is now open for APS Summer School, which runs July 5 – Aug. 1, at nine school sites. Parents will be informed about student eligibility during Parent-Teacher Conferences this week. Our program improvements for 2023 include the following:

  • In-person learning and strengthening in math and literacy for eligible elementary and middle school students. Eligibility based on critical needs in literacy OR math, or both.
  • A new STEM-based, hands-on learning opportunity as part of the strengthening program.
  • Credit recovery for eligible high school students.
  • Virtual Boost Courses are available to all middle and high school students through Exact Path for math, reading and language arts.
  • New English Bridge courses for English Learners (rising 9th and 11th grade students).
  • Extended School Year Services for students with disabilities.
  • PAPER tutoring, Outdoor Lab and more opportunities.

Learn more about Summer School.

FY 2024 Budget: I presented my proposed budget last Thursday. It prioritizes investments that are needed most to directly serve our students, invest in staff and maintain excellent schools, including a continued focus on employee hiring and retention, which includes compensation. Learn more.  View my presentation.

Exploring Social Emotional Learning (SEL): Self-Awareness: I continue to reinforce the importance of SEL lessons available to all students on key skills, including self-awareness. Knowing that mental health and a healthy self-image are critical for student academic success, this remains a key focus. Self-awareness is essential as it not only fosters optimism and responsible decision-making but also provides a foundation to establish and maintain healthy relationships with others. Learn more about how you can help your student develop this social-emotional skill: self-awareness.

March Celebrations:

  • March is Arts in the Schools Month: I encourage you to take advantage of opportunities to enjoy March concerts, arts festivals, workshops, recitals, poetry readings and plays. A complete list of APS arts events is available in the Arts in the Schools Month brochure. Follow APS on Twitter using #APSMarchisArts.
  • Women’s History Month: During Women’s History Month, we celebrate famous pioneers and leaders in our community. #APSWomensHistory.
  • Social Work Week: March 5-11 is Social Work Week, and APS will be thanking our school social workers for their many contributions to student well-being and success. Show them your thanks next week!

As a reminder, tomorrow, March 2, is an Elementary Early Release Day. Fri, March 3 is a No School Day for Elementary and Middle Schools for Parent-Teacher Conferences.

Have a great week!

Sincerely,

Dr. Francisco Durán
Superintendent

More News in News

Arlington Public Schools to Participate Summer Meals Program

Arlington Public Schools is participating in the Summer Food Service Program. Meals will be provided to students ages 18 and under on a first come, first serve basis, from July 5-Aug. 1 at Carlin Springs Elementary School (5995 5th Road S.).

School Board Appoints Principal of Arlington Science Focus Elementary School

At its June 22 meeting, the Arlington School Board appointed Gina Miller as Principal of Arlington Science Focus Elementary School. 

School Board Appoints Principal of Claremont Immersion Elementary School

At its June 22 meeting, the Arlington School Board appointed Dr. Liza Burrell-Aldana as Principal of Claremont Immersion Elementary School.