Dear Needham Public Schools Families:

Allow me to share a few updates as we begin winter break:

•  Equity Audit Presentation  The District's equity consultant, Ms. Christine Robinson, presented her initial findings about equity and inclusion in the Needham Public Schools to the School Committee this past week.  I urge parents and community members to read my blog post to learn more:  Superintendent's Blog  Additional information and next steps will be shared in the New Year.

•  District Website  Thanks to the efforts of our technology staff, school/department secretaries, and administrators we successfully launched our new website on December 1st. Please check it out if you have not already done so:  http://www.needham.k12.ma.us/  I hope you will find timely, accessible, and useful information on the website; please share your feedback!   I also want to acknowledge the efforts of NHS graphic arts teacher Robyn Briggs who worked with the following students to help with the design, especially the creation of our our new logo:  Charlie Bateman,  Eric Zhu, Sam Bello, Evan Anderson & Tyler Smith.  Congratulations to all!

•  2018-19 (FY19) School Budget & Hearing  The School Committee is currently reviewing a proposed 4.6% increase in the budget for the 2018-19 school year (FY19).  The budget plan maintains services in the schools and provides the resources required to address enrollment growth and special education needs.  The School Committee encourages you to attend the upcoming Budget Hearing scheduled at 7:00 p.m. for Tuesday, January 16th at Broadmeadow.  To learn more about the plan and voice your ideas, questions, concerns, and comments.  You may view the presentation I shared with the School Committee recently by clicking this link: FY19 Budget Presentation. You can also review detailed budget information available on the school department's website:  FY19 Budget Documents.

Finally, for those of you celebrating the holiday, Merry Christmas!  And for those of you who are just celebrating, well... have fun!  My wife Karen and I will enjoy Christmas at home with our daughters, and I am looking forward to a little down time with a good book.  

As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments:  781.455.0400, x203 or dan_gutekanst@needham.k12.ma.us  

Thanks for your generous and ongoing support of the Needham Public Schools.  Thank you, especially, for sharing your children with us each day.  They are amazing, talented, and spirited young people!  I hope you understand that I am honored and humbled to serve as your superintendent.

Respectfully,

Dan Gutekanst
Superintendent
Needham Public Schools