Dear Landmark Families,

I would like to thank you for the opportunity to work with you this school year. I had the pleasure of starting my educational career here at Landmark Middle School as a sixth grade math and science teacher in 1997. For me, this is a little like a homecoming. I taught for five years before moving into administration. For the last seven years, I have been an Assistant Principal and Principal at various sites in the Moreno Valley Unified School District. This year marks my fourth year as a middle school principal.

A common myth among families is that once your child reaches middle school the school does not want you involved. This is quite the contrary and I would encourage you to continue to stay involved and monitor your child's success during these vulnerable and influential years of their lives. The Landmark staff is also aware of the transitions your child will be going through and will continue to foster your child's growth socially, emotionally and academically.

You will notice some changes due to budgetary cuts, but our goal is that the impact will not affect your child within the classroom. I believe together we will minimize any changes while at the same time meet our site goals. We ask for your help, by volunteering for activities, such as, Booster Club, ELAC, SSC, AVID, GATE and other parent involvement opportunities when you are available. Thank you for your support in advance.

This school year we will not be having parent conferences, due to the middle school staff taking two furlough days on Friday, September 25th and Friday, January 22nd. We have allocated some Wednesdays during our flex schedule, as well as the morning and team prep periods, as a time to meet with our families in supporting your child's success here at Landmark. Please do not hesitate to contact your child's teachers to set-up a meeting regarding your child's progress.

On a reflective note, in life we can choose to be a thermometer or thermostat. One measures change in climate, the other changes the climate. I look forward to every stakeholder being that thermostat that shapes Landmark Middle School in 2009-2010. This year our theme is "Essential Pieces." No matter what concern, question or suggestion you may have, everyone is an essential piece to making the puzzle (Landmark Middle School) a whole. Only by working together as a team can this portrait of true talent and success be seen by everyone.

I will continue to update you regarding any changes here at Landmark. Please feel free to contact the school if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you in advance for all your support and I look forward to a wonderful year at Landmark Middle School.


Sincerely,
Mr. Schiermeyer – Pronounced (Sure-my-er)
Principal
E-Mail: cschiermeyer@mvusd.net