Bruce Butler wrote, "We are holding the thank you event for one reason; we wish as a community to recognize the many elementary school, middle school, high school, and graduate parents, and especially the countless students who worked very hard to support the South Lakes High School community during the boundary process.
I decided after the first boundary meeting that we would have some snacks and say thanks to the community regardless of the school board's future decision. No one is gloating, and we certainly understand as well as anyone involved the invective that laced aspects of the process. When hundreds of students, past and present, unite to support their school, and do so with dignity and class, even when under intense scrutiny, to say thanks is appropriate. I can assure you the first thing I say, just as I discussed with our PTSA, will be that this is not about the decision, it is about community, and our ongoing responsibility to welcome those new to our school family.
For your information we have held a series of welcoming events for our incoming students and families. They have been informative and enjoyable for all involved. We will be holding some special welcoming activities in the late summer to support incoming freshman as well.
In terms of proven benefits, all at South Lakes are committed to continuing the same level of instructional rigor that we are respected for. Again this year, just like last year, every 11th senior has been accepted at UVA. Every 7th senior has been accepted at Tech. We have kids accepted at Princeton, Cornell, Penn, Brown, and many, many other extremely selective schools. Our acceptance rates are exceptional and reflect the dedication of both our students and faculty, especially when one understands that some of our students are the first in their families to attend college.
I absolutely agree that if we were to hold a callous celebration to cheer about the board's decision it would be wrong. Rest assured we are not doing this. Again we would be holding the gathering if the board had decided to not change the boundaries. We are simply thanking those, especially the kids, who represented their school community in a respectful and affirming manner.
If you would like to attend please do so, or if you want to visit South Lakes High School to learn more about our instructional program and core values please let me know, I would love to take you on a tour of our school. Thanks again for writing and asking questions. We knew that without context the "thank you" could be misinterpreted. If any of your friends have concerns about the intent of the get together please share the information I have provided. Thanks, Bruce Butler SLHS"
The PTSA Bylaws have been updated and are available for review. Please send your comments to Elizabeth Cline.
Join us for this celebration to thank all of the students, alumni, parents, and community members who supported South Lakes HS throughout the boundary process. If you are interested in helping to plan this event, please email Ann Deschamps .