• Student Creativity Congratulations to all of our students who showcased their efforts in the schools' art shows and performed so well in various concerts and music performances over the last several weeks. It is clear that this community values creativity as evidenced by the skill and talent of our young people and the staff and parents who support them.

• Graduation 349 members of the Needham High School Class of 2008 received their diplomas at Babson College this past week during the Graduation Exercises attended by faculty, family, and friends. The graduates beamed throughout the ceremony as each one received his or her diploma from Principal Richards and members of the School Committee. In addition, during the traditional Class Day, over $184,000 in scholarships and honors were awarded to deserving NHS seniors. These scholarships represent the community's continued support and commitment to the young people of Needham High School.

• Newman Elementary School The town and school department continue to work closely to address the ongoing air quality concerns at Newman. This summer an enormous amount of work will be completed to ensure the building's heating and ventilation systems work properly and to provide a safe and healthy environment for all students and staff. At the same time the Permanent Public Building Committee (PPBC) is charged with the task of determining a permanent solution to heating and ventilation concerns in the building. I remain confident that the right resources are being applied and that we will all work together-Town Government, Schools, and the Needham community- to address and solve this problem. We will hold an additional evening parent meeting tomorrow, Wednesday, June 18th at 7:00 p.m. in the Newman auditorium to update parents about our progress and plans. The meeting will also be re-broadcast on cable for those unable to attend.

Finally, as summer draws near and the school year concludes, please know that I continue to be so impressed with Needham's young people and the work they have accomplished. As I visit the schools and classrooms, I observe enthusiastic and confident students who are eager to share their knowledge and help one another. It is clear that they embody the district's values of Scholarship, Citizenship, Community, and Personal Growth inside and outside of the classroom. I am very proud to be the superintendent of schools in this community!