Editor’s note: This column by Dr. Michelle R. Belle is the first in a series of regular contributions by area school superintendents. Look for Dr. Alvera Parrish and Katrise Perera to share their thoughts as well in next week or so.

Franklin City Public Schools has adopted a new motto, “Striving for Excellence.” All staff members will embrace and model this motto as we move forward into the 2013-2014 school year. The administration, faculty, staff, parents, students and community members continue to celebrate the many accomplishments and successes of our school division. Although we have many successes to be proud of, we are not where we need to be yet. Together, we are “Striving for Excellence” and we are looking forward to continuing the work to overcome the challenges that lie ahead. The success of the school division is dependent on a strong partnership between school division employees and the entire community working together to benefit all students. We sincerely appreciate the dedication, commitment and hard work of our staff and the continued support of our school community. Serving as the superintendent in the city of Franklin provides me with an incredible opportunity to lead and guide the school division forward, in collaboration with the School Board and working in partnership with a quality staff and community.

The Administrative Retreat for division-level leadership and principals was held in mid-June to reflect upon the past year, as well as review expectations, opportunities and goals for the new school year. Throughout the summer, FCPS administration and staff members have been hard at work preparing for the 2013-14 school year. Instructional staff members, in partnership with teachers and administrators across the school division, are guiding the implementation of curriculum revisions that will align and strengthen learning for all students. Additional specialists in math and reading have been hired and they will be collaborating with teachers to share best practices that will enhance the quality of instruction and foster student success. Additional administrative staff has also been hired at both Franklin High School and S. P. Morton Elementary School to assist in the daily operation of both buildings. Support staff members play an essential role in the division and they have been very busy preparing the schools for teachers and students to return school in the coming weeks. Administrators have invested many hours during the summer months selecting new staff and preparing them for the start of school.

The new school year is fast approaching. New teachers report to work on Aug. 13, while returning teachers report back to work on Aug. 20. Our Opening Convocation Breakfast will take place on Aug. 22. The Pre-Service days will be filled with many professional development and training opportunities for staff. Students begin the new school year on Sept. 3. FCPS has a new Academic Calendar format for the 2013-2014 school year. Parents will receive a copy of the calendar during Open House/Registration on Aug. 29. You may also access the calendar by visiting our new website address at www.fcpsva.org.

The start of the school year brings a positive outlook, exciting opportunities and a sense of new beginnings for our students as they meet their teachers, renew old friendships and make new friends. It is an exciting time for students, staff and parents. We begin this new school year with high expectations and strategic goals for improved student achievement and overall student success.

I appreciate all of you who make Franklin City Public Schools an outstanding educational organization. As a community member, you are an integral part of the success of our school division. We welcome your input, support and presence in our schools. FCPS remains committed to fostering the love and joy of learning, while providing engaging personal learning experiences for students every day.

Special thanks to our parents for their support of our children as they begin the new school year.

Best wishes for a wonderful year!

Thank you!

Dr. Michelle R. Belle is the superintendent of Franklin City Public Schools. She can be contacted at either 569-8111 or mbelle@Franklincity.k12.va.us.