United South Central School District

TO: USC Elementary Students and Parents/Guardians

DATE: August, 2024

SUBJECT: 2024-2025 School Year

Dear Parents and Guardians,

On behalf of the United South Central Elementary School staff, I am delighted to welcome you to the 2024-25 school year! As we embark on this new academic year, I extend a warm welcome to all our returning and new students and their families to United South Central Elementary. We begin this journey together with great anticipation and excitement, committed to educational excellence and personal growth.

Over the summer, we made exciting campus improvements, including new stadium seats at the Wells Concrete Stadium, a new look in the HS gym, painting in the elementary school, a new carpet in the elementary vestibule, and updating playground equipment (still in progress). These upgrades will enhance our facilities significantly. Our new playground will provide a more inclusive environment with adaptive swings and ramps, ensuring all students have access.

Beyond the physical upgrades to our campus, USC staff and community members have been deeply involved in a strategic planning process with TeamWorks. This collaborative effort aims to develop a comprehensive plan that sets a clear direction for our district's future, ensuring that all our efforts are focused on achieving shared goals and enhancing educational outcomes for all students—a special thank you to all the staff and community members who contributed to this process.

This year, we are excited to welcome four new teachers to our elementary team: Gianni Alm, interventionist; Allie Bauman, a second-grade teacher; Parker Haug, a band teacher; and Samatha Landsteiner, a fourth-grade teacher. Please join me in giving them a warm USC welcome this fall.

At USC, we remain dedicated to delivering high-quality education to every student and nurturing a supportive environment that fosters effective learning. This academic year, we are committed to encouraging our students to think critically and creatively through a robust curriculum aligned with the Minnesota State Standards. Our teaching philosophy incorporates USC’s Rebel Rights - Be Respectful ∙ Be Responsible ∙ Be Safe - into all aspects of our educational approach.

This year, the staff at USC looks forward to collaborating with you to ensure our children reach their fullest potential. Your involvement significantly impacts your child’s education, and we are eager to work alongside you. We appreciate your dedication to teaching your child daily and willingness to partner with us.

As a collaborator in your child’s education, you have the responsibility to:

• Support the efforts of the school community.

• Review the District Handbook and Student Code of Conduct with your child to ensure an understanding of the expectations.

• Promote positive behavior and decision-making by your child.

• Prioritize school attendance.

• Work collaboratively to address matters concerning your child.

• Meet with school staff when requested.

• Sign a statement acknowledging receipt of the handbook at the Open House (pink form).

As summer draws near, our skilled and dedicated staff have diligently prepared for the upcoming school year. We are confident it will be a fantastic year of valuable learning and growth. If you have any questions or concerns during the school year, please don’t hesitate to contact the elementary school office. Our staff is here to help and would be delighted to meet with you.

Warm Regards,

Jennifer Taylor

USC Elementary Principal

It’s a Great Day to be a Rebel!

Rebel Rights: Be Responsible, Be Respectful, Be Safe