October 15, 2009 Dear Parents and Guardians: A few brief updates to conclude the week: School Committee Open House The Needham School Committee will hold its annual Open House on Saturday, October 17th, this year at Newman during the annual [ http://www.clubrunner.ca/CPrg/Home/eventitem.asp?cid=3694&iid=85039&rtp=/CPr... ]Rotary Scholarship Pancake Breakfast in the cafeteria. The Open House will be held from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. and provides an informal opportunity for the School Committee to hear from parents and community members. Grab a stack of pancakes and stop by to say hello to your School Committee, ask a question, or make a suggestion. They are eager to meet you! Please note: The pancake breakfast begins at 7:00 a.m. and continues until 1:00 p.m. High Rock Dedication Please join the High Rock community at the dedication of the Town's newest school on Sunday afternoon, October 25th at 2:00 p.m. All are invited for the ceremony, tours, and light refreshments. Newman Renovation Community Meeting As you may know, the School Committee and Selectmen have voted to place an override ballot question before voters on December 8, 2009 to support the renovation and repairs at the Newman Elementary School. Numerous parents and community members have requested information about the planned Newman project. Therefore, parents, community members, and Town Meeting members are invited to learn more about the project at a Newman Renovation Information Meeting to be held on Wednesday, October 28th at 7:00 p.m. in the Newman auditorium. Because Newman plays a critical role in the Needham community as the town's largest elementary school, KASE and NEDP site, Science Center home, Parks and Recreation gym facility, community theatre, and Town Meeting venue, I encourage all parents to learn about this important school and community renovation project. Folks can find additional information about the plans on the district's website: [ http://rwd1.needham.k12.ma.us/newman_renovation_updates/ ]Newman Renovation Information As always, please contact me at 781.455.0400, x 203 or dan_gutekanst@needham.k12.ma.us if you have a comment, question, or concern. Thanks! Dan Gutekanst Superintendent of Schools