May has arrived. Even without the trauma of allergy season you can tell by watching our children that we are close to the end of the year. The students are looking forward to summertime fun and relaxation.

The school year has all but flown by and the faculty and staff have seen another year of growth in the students of Southern Elementary School. For myself, I have had another wonderful experience this year and want to thank the community for all of the support you have shown for your school. Many of you have volunteered at the school, supported our student athletes, and donated your time in other numerous ways.

During this last month I hope to end the school year on a high note. The students in grades 3 – 8 are finishing the Ohio Achievement Tests. Through their hard work and the dedication of the faculty and staff, I believe we will see further improvements in the test scores and student achievement. There has been a great commitment on behalf of the students to use Study Island at home and in the classroom, and the Math Coach program has again had a wonderful impact on how students approach the OAT and math in general.

Some upcoming events during this last month of school will be dedicated to students having a little fun after the rigorous testing they have endured. Field days and class picnics will be held during the last two weeks of school. Relay for Life is scheduled for May 19^th. The Jr. High awards assembly for all sports teams will be held on May 20^th. Kindergarten Graduation will be held on the 20^th as well. The final awards assemblies for grades 1 – 8 will be held on the morning of May 20^th. More information on each of these events will be sent home soon.

Again, I want to thank the parents, students, faculty and staff, as well as many other community members for coming together to make this another successful year.