Dear Parents and Guardians: There are some upcoming opportunities for parents and community members to participate in and learn more about three important discussions taking place in the Needham Public Schools: • There will be a Parent Forum on proposed new school bus transportation fees and guidelines at the Eliot School Media Center on Monday, April 14, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be an opportunity for parents and members of the community to be informed of and ask questions about proposed changes in the school transportation program for the 2008-2009 academic year. The School Committee is scheduled to vote on new guidelines and a fee structure at its April 15th meeting. • On Thursday, April 17th at 7:00 p.m. in the Broadmeadow media center, parents are invited to meet the candidate for the position of Director of Student Development and Program Evaluation. Dr. George Johnson, the current Director, is retiring at the conclusion of the current school year after providing extraordinary management and leadership for special education, guidance, health services, and the district's METCO programs. • The 2007-2008 Parent Survey results will be presented on Thursday, May 1, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. in the Broadmeadow School Performance Center. Dr. Johnson, Director of Student Development and Program Evaluation, will share survey results and answer questions. After the presentation, participants will be asked to take part in small focus groups by school in an attempt to gather more information about parent perceptions of the Needham Schools. I hope you can join us. Thanks, Dan Gutekanst Superintendent of Schools