08/22/03

   August 25, 2003, will mark the fifty-seventh year we have opened our doors to students in the Department of Defense Dependents Schools (DoDDS) Pacific. It gives me great pleasure to welcome all students, families, administrators, educators and support staff “back to school.” Our area, district and school personnel are devoted to making School Year 2003-2004 a stellar one for each and every student. The unwavering support we receive each year from DoDDS educators and school community members is fundamental to our mission of providing a world-class educational program that inspires and prepares our students for success in a global environment.

   Our commitment to the goals of the Department of Defense Education Activity’s (DoDEA) Community Strategic Plan is substantiated through our strong educational programs, sound instructional practices, and comprehensive support services. In our on-going effort to ensure that every student has the opportunity to reach high standards of achievement, DoDDS Pacific administrators will continue to lead schools in using research based best practices, implementing standards based curricula, and sustaining quality community partnerships to enhance student learning. Administrators will also continue to promote their schools as professional learning communities by tapping into the expertise of school improvement team members, curriculum implementation facilitators, new teacher mentors as well as all school personnel. Through collaboration and shared leadership, each school will continue to assess the learning needs of all students and strive to provide appropriate interventions, especially for those students who may need additional resources and assistance in math and literacy skills.

   I am excited about the pledge of our educators to provide students with the knowledge and skills that focus on national standards and promote high levels of achievement. I am confident that the efforts of school staff members will result in learners that are bound for future success—learners that are nurtured academically, emotionally and socially.
DoDDS Pacific is fortunate to have a cohesive group of stakeholders including dedicated teachers, skillful administrators, involved parents, and a supportive military community. I deeply appreciate each of your efforts in ensuring DoDDS Pacific students receive a quality education.

   Once again, welcome, and I wish you all a productive and enjoyable school year!

Nancy C. Bresell
Director, DoDDS Pacific