It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to Calavera Hills Elementary School. You have joined a truly amazing community.

In my three years at Calavera, I continue to be inspired by the drive and determination of all members of our school community- students, parents, and staff. This community truly believes in the power of the partnership between home and school and actively works to support the needs of all of our learners.

We serve a diverse student population, maintain high expectations for all learners, and take seriously our responsiblity to get the best from each child- both academically and socially. Our goal- and our commitment- is to take each child at whatever level they come to us and move them forward. To do this,  a variety of program supports are offered both in and out of the general classroom. We provide differentiated curriculum and instruction to meet the many ability levels of our student learners, from struggling learners to advanced students; we offer push-in literacy tutors for grades K-3; afterschool programs in language arts and mathematics support struggling learners in grades 4-5; and, English Language Development is provided to all students not yet proficient in English. Classroom and schoolwide incentives exist to build positive student behavior, emphasizing positive choices and self-regulation.

We encourage open and on-going communication so that we may work together on your child's behalf. Your child's teacher is the first step in that process, and they welcome your questions and comments. Each teacher has a classroom website and email address where they can be reached. Also, please feel free to communicate with me- in person, by phone, or via email- to share your thoughts and ask your questions.

2009-10 looks to be another great year for Calavera Hills Elementary. We're glad you'll be a part of it!

Leslie Harden