Continuing the money discussion

It seems like a lot of us like to discuss finances; there have been more than 200 postings on the previous thread in less than 3 weeks. So we'll refresh the topic, and continue the discussion!

Money makes the world go round...

...or at least it can seem that way! Whether it's fund-raising, petty cash, legal bills, referendums, pensions, fees, or taxes--money is a hot topic right now. Are we spending our money wisely? Are we getting maximum "bang for our buck"? And if not, what can we do differently?

Consequences

When my kids were in middle school and high school, I used to remind them at the beginning of every school year that the choices they make now will produce results later. Good choices (studying, paying attention in class, following rules) were usually reflected on their report card or at teacher conference time. Poor choices could result in a negative consequence--maybe a detention or loss of privileges.

The start of a new school year is a good time for all of us (students, teachers, parents, staff, community members) to remember that the things we choose to say and do NOW will have ramifications LATER. Let's think before we speak or act!

It's the most wonderful time of the year!

No, we're not getting into the Christmas spirit quite yet; we're talking about the beginning of a brand new school year. It's a fresh opportunity for students, staff, and the entire community to pull together to help our kids succeed. It's a new start, and a chance to do grEAt things here in District 131.

On your mark...get set...GO!

Things are really heating up around here...

...in more ways than one! But as the saying goes, "let cooler heads prevail".

Summer "marches" on!

Today is the first day of the 2011 East Aurora Band Camp. This has been a wonderful experience for our band students for many, many years! Young musicians ranging in age from middle school through high school (and a few alums, too) spend the week sharpening their skills and getting to know their band-mates in the beautiful setting of LaSalle Manor. Then, the entire group marches in Aurora's Fourth of July parade.

Band Camp is definitely one of the many grEAt things happening this summer in our district. We're proud to support you, D131 band students!

End of the school year!

And what a year it's been...we've dealt with extreme weather (including a record-breaking snowstorm in February, and an April with the least amount of sunshine in recorded history). We've said "goodbye and good luck in retirement" to some of our district's finest, including Rollins Principal Karen Hart and Dieterich teachers Ms. Diane Backes and Mrs. Liz Hardy. We've witnessed a contentious School Board election, and are hoping to have a full Board seated later this summer. And we look to the future with optimism, because those of us who've been part of this district for awhile know that our KIDS are the best, and deserve our support and encouragement!