Another year of learning begins for students
HOWARD S. SMITH Williamsville School Superintendent
An overcast sky and light rain did not dampen the spirits of students or staff as they began school here in Williamsville last Wednesday. While everyone reluctantly surrendered to the end of a beautiful summer, we also welcomed the return to school and a new beginning filled with hope and expectation, excitement and, no doubt, some trepidation. The extraordinary efforts of our twelve-month staff prepared us for an excellent opening of our schools for approximately 11,000 students.

As superintendent, I can attest to the reality that the most important interactions that occur in our schools are the ones taking place daily between teachers and students in classrooms. In my presentation to all faculty and staff last week, my message centered on the powerful impact these professionals have. We can all remember a beloved teacher who touched our lives as children. Years may have passed but their influence on us remains constant in subtle, if not profound, ways.

I also shared some interesting statistics with our staff, including the fact that entering first graders this year will graduate from high school in the year 2020. Eighty-six percent of the jobs these children will hold in the 2020's and beyond have not been created as yet. The daunting challenge for parents and educators alike is to prepare our children to inherit the world 20-plus years from now, a world that will be so different than it is today.

In Williamsville, we embrace that challenge and continually work to advance student achievement through a progressive school improvement process that also integrates character education and student wellness initiatives into the learning environment.

Last year, the Williamsville, Clarence, Ken-Ton and Sweet Home school districts established the Western New York Leadership Consortium for the purpose of working together to provide advanced staff training opportunities for teachers in order to increase the probability of student success at all levels. Consultants have been working with administrators since 2006 and team leaders beginning this summer. In December, the consortium will host a special staff development event featuring Dr. Douglas Reeves, chairman and founder of the Leadership and Learning Center, and the International Center for Educational Accountability. His research is focused on helping schools transform their approach to standards with the expectation that all students will meet or exceed academic standards. During his visit to Western New York, Dr. Reeves will spend a day in Williamsville, working with staff members and sharing his practical approach to standards, assessments and accountability.

Also this fall, 13 distinguished alumni from our three high schools will be inducted into the Williamsville Wall of Fame. Sponsored by the Williamsville Education Foundation Inc., an induction breakfast will be held at 8 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 9 at the Westwood Country Club. For reservations, call 632-6905.

I am just as excited as the students are to begin a new school year and, thanks to the outstanding efforts of our staff at every level, I am confident that 2007-08 will be a productive and successful year.