On behalf of the staff of the Ethel M. Burke School, I would like to welcome you to our family. Elementary school is where it all begins; your children are continuously learning valuable lessons, both academically and socially. Our goal here at Burke is to support them in their efforts to learn, maintaining a "Kid-Centered" Program that focuses on concerns for enhancing self-esteem and human relationships.

Academically, our faculty and staff will provide a rich, challenging, and diversified program that focuses on mastery of basic skills, creative problem solving, and the development of an appreciation for learning in all areas of the elementary curriculum. Our Burke Team recognizes that each student is an individual, and to that end we will develop a plan to meet each child's individual needs. In addition, we will continue to provide a learning environment that is warm, caring, and nurturing.

Ethel Burke staff believes in active participation and involvement on the part of parents, students, and school personnel as partners in the process of developing a safe, stimulating, and respectful school climate. We must maintain close ties between home and school in order to insure success for each child and, to a larger degree, success for the entire Burke School Community. Because families are so instrumental in their children's educational success, it is my hope that we will continue the strong "parent-school-community" partnership that has always thrived here at Burke.

Please remember that your concerns are also our concerns. If you have any questions during the year, do not hesitate to call. The phone number at Burke is 931-6362.

Best wishes and good luck to all as we begin this exciting journey.