February 2, 2007        

            My kindergarten student reminded me that not only is it Ground Hog Day, but it is 100s day as well.  As I was seeing the 100 sea shells or the 100 cheerios, it made me realize that we are on the short end of the school year.  The official number of days is 175 student attendance days, so if my elementary math is correct, we have 75 more to go.

            So much will be accomplished in those 75 days.  Both high school basketball teams will start their quest in the regional tournament for IHSA.  In addition, three new high school sports will begin.  Boys baseball, girls softball, and track that both boys and girls can compete in will start soon. 

            We will complete the ISAT testing for the elementary and middle school.  We will complete the PSAE for the high school.  And if you believe the State, we will get the results back before the end of school.  If you believe that one, I have some swamp land to sell you too. 

            The 8^th graders will graduate to high school; the seniors will graduate to their next step in life.  There will be numerous class trips to see some wonderful things. 

            But what really strikes me is how much is done in such little time.  Students grow so much in the 175 days in which we have them.  That is a true testament to the hard work and dedication of the teachers, the support staff and the community at large.