Dear Families,

Welcome back to another exciting school year! I hope this letter finds you all in good health and high spirits. As we begin the new academic year, I would like to take a moment to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our students and express my heartfelt gratitude to each member of our community for contributing to the success of the previous year. We demonstrated a 7% growth in Mathematics and 4% growth in English Language Arts as measured by Smarter Balanced Assessment. In addition, our 4 year graduation rate improved from 85% to 92%. Lastly, but certainly not least, we were fortunate enough to have the largest FFA chapter in the country, win a football state championship, a track state championship and we improved participation numbers in almost all clubs and activities. Countless memories were made!!

Our students' hard work, coupled with the unwavering support from our teachers, staff, and families, has elevated our school to new heights. One vital aspect that played a significant role in last year's success was our efforts to improve consistent and punctual attendance. Attending school regularly is crucial to academic progress and personal development. It is through consistent attendance that students can actively engage in classroom activities, participate in discussions, and build strong connections with their peers and teachers. As we look ahead to the coming year, I want to emphasize the importance of regular attendance for all our students. Coming to school everyday will:

• Maximize Learning

  • Regular attendance ensures that students are present for every lesson, enabling them to absorb information, participate in interactive learning experiences, and grow academically.

• Build Relationships

  • A strong sense of community flourishes when students attend school consistently. They develop lasting friendships, form bonds with their teachers, and feel connected to their school environment.

• Develop Responsible Habits

  • Punctuality and consistent attendance instill valuable life skills that are essential for success in future careers.

• Maintain Progress

  • Consistent attendance is critical in keeping up with coursework and staying on track academically.

Together, let us continue to uphold the values of academic excellence, community collaboration, and responsible attendance that define our school. I am confident that, with our united efforts, the coming year will be filled with even greater achievements and unforgettable memories.

Thank you once again for your unwavering commitment to our school. I am honored to serve as the principal of such an exceptional community. Let us embark on this new academic journey with enthusiasm and determination, knowing that together, we can empower our students to reach their fullest potential.

Our staff will be back in the building on August 29th, 30th and 31st preparing for a fantastic school year ahead!

Curtis Cleveringa

YHS Principal