Dr. William Clark

Superintendent’s Corner

June 2008

Summer Activities

            As another school year comes to a close, it is important that parents and students take the time in the summer to refresh and relax a little bit before the start of another school year.

            First, I would like to congratulate the graduates of the Class of 2008.  These students have left an impression of the school district that has not been seen in years, including their efforts to work with Mr. Conn to raise $30,000 for Team Cambodia to build the Milton School in Cambodia.  This is impressive beyond belief. 

Parents can take some time over the summer to allow their students to unwind but then also keep their academic skills sharp.  One approach would be reading with their son or daughter or providing books for them to read independently in an environment where they will feel comfortable.  If you have questions about what books your son or daughter should be reading over the summer for their grade level suggestions are posted on the district web page.  Feel free to review that list which has also been provided to the Milton Public Library.

            In the other academic areas, it does not hurt to have your son or daughter work on simple games that keep them focused, whether it is math skills or science skills.  Pick up a book at the local book stores for activity worksheets.  Children like hands-on activities that can be done around the house that give them a sense of contributing. 

There are ample opportunities with the various clubs and camp activities running over the summer that would assist to get your son or daughter engaged in a social circle that will stimulate an educational environment.  One such activity would be the summer band camp being run for elementary students on various nights over several weeks that would allow your child to sharpen their instrumental skills if they are interested in instrumental music program.

            Overall, students need to take the time in the summer to relax.  I would also strongly recommend any activity that would engage your child intellectually and physically during the course of the summer.  This will allow them to stay sharp and fresh so that the transition back at the beginning of next school year would be a successful one.