February 2009

Dear Sunset Families,

As you may well be aware, the current national financial crisis has directly affected the Beaverton School District and many of our families. The continuing stream of foreclosures and layoffs has brought new meaning to “trickle-down” economics as declining property and income tax revenues have created a shortfall in the district’s budget. The district and schools have worked diligently throughout the fall and winter to minimize any direct impact on student achievement. The news, however, is that state revenues will continue decline, and we may be facing additional cut backs this spring. While this may be gloomy news, I want to reassure you that the district and school are doing everything possible to minimize any impact on your child’s education.

With this in mind, it is important to note that we will be restoring 3 snow days that were lost in December to our calendar. This is achieved by converting June 8th, 9th, 10th, and 11th into full school days and adding June 12th as the last day of school for students. It is anticipated that this calendar change will not effect graduation or senior activities, but it does impact our final exams schedule for grades 9 through 11. I’ll be working with staff on developing the best plan for semester finals to occur, and we’ll be sure to communicate this to you. While these changes should have minimal impact on your summer plans, please note that any further school closures will likely result in the extension of the school year.

There are two important dates that you need to keep in mind. First, the district is planning a Strategic Planning Community Forum at Sunset High School, beginning at 6:00 pm and concluding at 9:00 pm. This forum is intended to collect input on the development of the district’s five-year goal. Second, the theater department will present the musical “Urinetown” on March 5th – 7th and 12th – 14th. This award-winning production is a whimsical satire on corporate greed and the scarcity of natural resources. This will be a great opportunity to see our students showcase their incredible talents.

Best wishes,

Todd