I am excited about the opportunity American Education Week gives us to plan events and activities, and invite community members into our schools. This is an ideal time to showcase our theme for SY 2002-03, DoDEA Reads, and to make it come alive for students and their families.

     During American Education Week, I will be hosting the DoDDS Pacific Principals' Conference. The focus this year is Leading a Standards-based School: Literacy at the Center, with much of our conference geared to strategies for developing literacy skills. My staff and I will use this week to share our DoDDS Pacific story with representatives of the military commands who will be with us at the conference.

     We have so much to be proud of in DoDDS Pacific. Our exceptional district and school staff members work tirelessly to ensure our students will be ready for a bright and successful future. Our community members have brought interest and self-worth to our students through their involvement in dynamic partnerships. Our parents have devoted time and energy at home and at school to support their children, and every day their children--our students--show us the promise in American's future.

     Since 1921, American Education Week has endeavored to increase public understanding and appreciation of our nation's schools by encouraging parents and community members to visit. In DoDDS Pacific, we have much to celebrate. I encourage all of you to draw on American Education Week as a time to invite the public to see the exciting results of our efforts.

     Most important, I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the exceptional efforts and dedication of our school administrators, teachers, and all our support staff. On behalf of our many stakeholders and customers, I thank you for making our schools the best in the Nation.

Nancy C. Bresell
Director, DoDDS Pacific