Welcome back!

Welcome to the 2013-2014 school year and to Ann Arbor’s exceptional schools.

On September 3^rd, 2013, more than 16,500 students will arrive through our AAPS school doors and we are delighted to welcome each and every one to this new school year.

Our staff has been busy preparing all summer for this special day; the school buildings, classrooms and staff are prepared for a tremendous school year focused on quality teaching and learning. Our mission in Ann Arbor Public Schools is to “ensure each student realizes his or her aspirations while advancing the common good, by creating a world-class system of innovative teaching and learning.”  The work of every staff member and every activity we undertake in our AAPS organization is focused on achieving this singular goal for each student entrusted to our care.

An African proverb states:

If you want to go fast, go alone.

If you want to go far, go together.

As we embark on this school year, we understand that supporting our students is a partnership; as parents, teachers, support staff, and leaders, we accomplish this important work together on behalf of each child. We know that the parent is the child’s first teacher and that quality teachers and school staffs partner with parents to meet each child’s individual needs to realize the highest growth and success for each of our students.

During the fall semester, I look forward to meeting in public forums at every school site; the goal of these face-to-face meetings across all areas of our community is to listen and learn from the parents and stakeholders of our Ann Arbor Public Schools. In the coming days, a schedule of meetings will be communicated so that all have the opportunity to participate. I hope to meet you at one of these neighborhood forums or at other upcoming school events.

I thank you for choosing quality Ann Arbor Public Schools; I know you have a choice when choosing schools for your children, and appreciate your confidence in AAPS. If you should need anything during this back-to-school time and throughout this school year, please don’t hesitate to call on your school team and on me; we are here to serve you.

Sincerely,

Jeanice Kerr Swift