It has been a smooth start to another great school year for many students in the South Kitsap School District, both young and old. As the weather turns from the warm sunny days of summer to the cooler and bracing days of fall, we are so excited by the many exciting learning opportunities our record number of students and staff are engaged in. For the first time in 16 years, we are seeing an increase in enrollment rather than a decrease.

On behalf of our Board of Directors, I want to thank the many community members who took the time to attend our recent Town Hall Meeting held at South Kitsap High School and those community leaders who took the time to come and share their experiences and insights. It is important for us to share information on important district initiatives; we plan to continue our conversation with the community as we move forward this coming year.

There are a number of initiatives we are focused on this year. Several of our schools are working on becoming STEM-focused schools which is another way of saying that we are developing a more comprehensive approach to science, technology, engineering and mathematics at these schools. This is exciting because our state continues to have a high need for graduates with STEM strengths. Other schools are focused on becoming International Baccalaureate (IB) schools. This curriculum is both rigorous and student- centered providing many advantages to learners.

Our Spanish Immersion Program and Pacific Rim language additions are up and running as are the new Advanced Placement (AP) courses at the junior highs and high school. We are committed to high expectations for all children and are resolute about providing high support to get them there. Our exemplary staff continue to unwaveringly commit to providing a world class education for each child — no exceptions. As we continue our work toward the district 2020 Goal of having 80 percent of our graduates successfully enter post-secondary education, we will continue to partner with parents, families, and the community.

With the new school year upon us, and the bright hopes for a great fall term, I want to remind each of us to take an extra minute and provide encouragement and support to a young person as they work on their studies. The power of that positive encouragement and support is one that strengthens our community and inspires our youth to do their best.

This power of inspired innovation is one that holds the key for our collective future.

Dr. Michelle Reid is superintendent of the South Kitsap School District.