Class placements for the 2013-2014 school year is on the agenda for the staff here at GWES. This is a job that all of us takes very seriously, as we think carefully about the strengths and needs of each of the children.  The process for aligning a good fit starts with our classroom teachers, special education teachers, special area teachers, guidance, reading specialists, and intervention teacher, all reviewing the information that we have available regarding each child.  We consider each student’s learning style, instructional needs, as well as their emotional/behavioral needs.  Other considerations include achieving a balance of gender, diversity, and those students, which when placed together, are more likely to enrich the learning environment.

The process kicks off with the current classroom teacher meeting first with the principal and the support teachers to create our initial draft of class lists.  We follow up on this draft with meetings to include other staff members to review, provide input, and revise the class lists. We spend many hours discussing the 480 students who make up GWES, the composition of each class and each student’s match with the new teacher.  Of course, final decisions on class placement are made over the summer when the student registration is more accurate.

We are committed to following a well-designed process that looks at each child individually and in the context of the many considerations and factors previously identified.  While we respect parent input, we have the advantage of knowing our students and teachers in the educational setting.  Our staff makes the placement decisions based on many factors not on parental requests.

Parents are welcome to contact me in writing to share their perspectives on how their child learns.  Information shared by parents is valuable and is added to the information shared by all members of our staff.  Please know that we are thankful for the respect and trust that parents offer to our staff as we determine the best fit for each child.  We are so very fortunate to have a remarkable community of professionals here at GWES and a supportive group of parents who make the learning experience for each child a most positive one!  Thank you once again for your cooperation. 

I also want to take the opportunity to publically thank several groups.  First, the fair committee headed by Kelly Geibel.  It was a fantastic event that was enjoyed by all who attended, from the new food trucks to the Hawaiian Hula Dancers.  I believe that the fair again this year, exceeded our expectations.  The PTO, along with the MANY volunteers, who worked so hard prior, during and after the fair, are certainly to be congratulated.  This is a wonderful event that helps the entire greater Malvern community better understand just how special GWES is for children and families. Second, thank you to Malvern Fire Department and Ambulance for attending our Spring BBQ and opening their vehicles for students to experience first-hand.  Last, many thanks to the Willistown Police Department, specifically Detective Steve Jones, for organizing the safety event, volunteering time, and for donating the ice cream treat for the children.  Our partnership is valuable for the students of GVSD and one I hope we continue for many years to come.