A message from new Seattle schools superintendent Dr. Susan Enfield.  For the full-letterhead version, click here. Enfield letter 3/15

March 14, 2011

Dear Seattle Public Schools families,
As interim Superintendent, I look forward to working with you and our community to ensure that your children receive the highest quality education possible. 

I know the faith in Seattle Public Schools has been shaken by recent events - there is work to do to restore trust and confidence. I strongly believe however, that we have an opportunity to come together now as a community on behalf of what matters most: our students.

One of my immediate responsibilities is to ensure that we take the necessary steps to strengthen the financial and operational management of our District.  Last week we took two important steps by appointing Robert S. Boesche as the district’s interim Chief Financial Officer and Pegi McEvoy as the district’s interim Chief Operations Officer.   The District has a national search underway for permanent replacements for these
positions.  We are also replacing the district’s internal auditor.  As new staff join our District we will be sure to introduce them to you via our web-site, meetings and other communications.

As your Superintendent, I am also working to ensure that our primary focus remains on the quality of day-to-day teaching and learning in our classrooms.  I know our principals, teachers and staff at all levels of the District are working hard to make sure the months leading up to the last day of this school year are meaningful
ones for our students.

In the coming weeks I will be in the community listening to your comments, questions and concerns.  Additionally, I will continue to have an open door policy so you can offer input directly on how we can continue to improve.  Beginning on Thursday, March 24th, I will be holding open office hours from 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. at the John Stanford Center, 2445 3rd Avenue South.  I encourage you to make an appointment to come and
meet with me.  Please contact Venetia Harmon, vlharmon@seattleschools.org to schedule a time.

Thank you for entrusting us with your children.  I promise that I, and everyone on my team, will give you our very best.  

Sincerely,

Dr. Susan Enfield
Interim Superintendent
Seattle Public Schools