Dear Shipley's Choice families,

I am honored and excited to join your school as principal! Shipley's Choice Elementary School has been continuously acknowledged as one of the most outstanding schools in Maryland. We have been recognized as a State Blue Ribbon School, a Maryland Green School, and a Wellness School of Distinction. Our staff of highly qualified teachers works hard to meet the needs of all our students.

Carrying on Mr. Ferretti's tradition, we have once again selected a theme to help communicate our goals and make learning fun. This year, we have selected the theme "Reach for the Stars". We are continuously reaching and attaining higher goals!

This year, we are embarking on a new instructional mission. Kindergarten and first grades will be implementing an exciting new curriculum developed by AACPS. This curriculum integrates Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies content with high quality literature, thinking skills, and movement essential for our youngest learners.

As we work toward producing Twenty First Century learners, we will continue to expand our use of technology both in and out of the classroom. Watch to see our website and Twitter feed grow and improve this year. Listen to your children talk about how they are using technology to enhance their learning experiences.

We are all part of the same TEAM-parents and educators who are working together to grow our children as thinkers, readers and writers. You as parents and families are the heart of our school! We hope you will join us and volunteer in the classroom, for special events, and become active members of the PTA.

It is my hope that your child has an exciting and challenging year at Shipley's Choice Elementary School. I am looking forward to getting to know you and your children as we soar to new heights as we "Reach for the Stars!'

Beth Anne Burke
Principal