As we enter the new calendar year, the 2011-12 school year is already approaching the halfway point. It has been a fabulous school year thus far in terms of academics and extra-curricular achievement. 

Congratulations are certainly in order for our Kindergarten -Third Grade students and teachers for their amazing performance on the fall achievement test. The test results are the highest they have ever been at this point in the school year and we will most certainly meet all of the third grade indicators on next year’s district report card. It appears the school district is on track for another “Excellent” ranking.

Congratulations to Coach Buttermore and the High School Football program for another fabulous season. This year’s team made it further into the playoffs than any football team in school history. The entire community rallied behind the team and made a great showing in terms of fan support all season along and at all of the playoff game. It was a great opportunity for the school district to showcase the new turf field by hosting the first play-off game in school history. Congratulations are also in order for the TV Marching Band students who were not only putting on a great show at all of the football games, but also managed to qualify for State and earn a superior rating for the fourth consecutive year. 

There is a lot of talk about the economy and school finances around the state, and I would be remiss not to update residents about our current financial situation at Tri-Valley. The school district is holding our own in terms of controlling expenditures, and the reductions that have been made over the past three years have allowed us to continue offering excellent academic and extra-curricular activities without placing any additional financial burden on our community. As long as no further cuts are made at the state level, we are not anticipating any further reductions at Tri-Valley. District employees have not received any raises for the past two years, and almost three million dollars in expenses have been eliminated over the last three years. We are very excited about the new Halliburton project that that was recently announced, and are looking forward to partnering with our newest corporate resident to provide even greater opportunities for our students.

Although we have not had any snow as of press time, it is the time of year when we have to consider the likelihood of inclement weather. The procedure for school cancellations, delays, and early dismissals has not changed from last year. Please remember to sign up on the district website for email and text notifications during dangerous weather.