PRINCIPAL'S LETTER

Dear Parents:

I am proud and happy to be the new principal of the University Laboratory School (ULS), a public school with an outstanding reputation for educating students in Hawai‘i for over half a century. What makes ULS special is its long-standing role as the real-world laboratory for the Curriculum Research & Development Group (CRDG) of the University of Hawai‘i, a role that makes it the only school in Hawai‘i that supports educational research and development as well as improvement strategies. As an education laboratory, ULS provides a rich, highly representative student body within which CRDG programs received their first trial and development. Keep in mind that no other school (public, private, or independent) in this state can match the unique educational experience that your child will receive at the University Laboratory School.

Along with the overall purpose, vision, mission, beliefs, and general goals of ULS, it employs teachers/researchers who help create theories of knowledge, instruction, and curriculum design, while monitoring how quickly all students are able to grasp the concepts being taught. ULS teachers create a classroom environment that encourages students to constantly inquire, question, probe, and hypothesize about what they are learning. This type of educational environment helps develop the critical thinking skills that students need to use in all subject areas.

I am excited about the opportunity to work with you as a partner in the education of your children. Research has shown that parent involvement in their children's education has a significant impact on how successful their children will be in school. The fact that ULS is a K–12 school increases the likelihood of parents developing a strong, lasting relationship with school administration, faculty, and staff. This, in turn, will contribute to your children feeling that they are part of an extended, caring ‘ohana that is concerned about their success in school and in life.

In conclusion, I am excited about meeting each and every one of you. As a principal with over thirteen years of experience, I will continue to have an open door policy when it comes to meeting with parents. Please feel free to visit me when you come to the school. I am here to serve you and your children. Mahalo.

Sincerely,