February/March 2008

Dear Readers,   

We had a great gathering with House Majority Leader Tony Sertich at Vaughan Steffensrud Elementary School in his hometown of Chisholm early in January. Principal Jim Varichak, Representative Sertich’s mother, Nancy, a five year S.M.A.R.T. veteran, and the school's entire S.M.A.R.T. staff hosted the gathering. We were joined by the area MLRC mentor, Ann Borich, and other S.M.A.R.T. educators from across the region for observation of Vaughan Steffensrud's outstanding program followed by a time for all to share their experiences with S.M.A.R.T.

Representitive Tony Sertich and Kim Jordan, Vaughan Steffensrud teacher

We want to thank Representative Sertich for joining us and taking time from his very busy schedule to observe the program first hand and hear what S.M.A.R.T. area educators had to say about its benefits and particularly about the importance of the on-site follow-up mentoring to insure a strong implementation.  

We will look to him for his continued leadership as we return to the capitol this session requesting re-instatement of funds necessary to maintain that mentoring for schools statewide that have invested in the S.M.A.R.T. Program.

As always, thanks to all of YOU for your continued leadership within your own schools and in getting kids ready to learn!

Nancy