August 2009

Greetings!

In just a few weeks, we will begin the 2009-2010 school year. I'm sure everyone - parents, students, and staff - is gearing up for the start of the new school year, as well as savoring the last few weeks of summer vacation

I'd like to welcome our new students and families to our district. We're honored that you've chosen Cabarrus County Schools. Let me also say to our returning students and families - welcome back and thank you for allowing us to continue to serve you.

We are very excited about the start of the new school year and have been busy all summer making preparations for our students' arrival later this month. Our administrators and teachers also spent some time "in class," taking advantage of professional development and leadership enrichment opportunities. Schools have hosted transition camps for students entering kindergarten, middle school and high school to help them "learn the ropes" and know what to expect at their new schools.

We also spent the summer months putting the finishing touches on our two newest schools - Cox Mill High School and Cabarrus-Kannapolis Early College High School. We know that the students who will attend these new schools are excited to begin creating their school communities and school traditions.

To help you prepare for the start of the new school year, we have created a special Back-to-School section on our district website. I encourage you to visit our site at www.cabarrus.k12.nc.us for more information about school open house events, school opening and dismissal times, KIDS:PLUS, our before-and-after school childcare program, transportation and a host of other important information.

Again, we thank you for allowing us to be a part of your children's lives. We are honored and humbled by the trust and confidence you've placed in us. Everyone at Cabarrus County Schools is committed to providing your children with the best education possible.

We're eager to get the new school year started. I know that working together we will make it a great one.

Sincerely,

Dr. Barry Shepherd
Superintendent