An open letter from the principal

Published 1:42 pm Thursday, February 5, 2009

Dear Issaquah Valley families,

For the past three years, this school community has been such a family to me – I can’t tell you what a rich experience it has been to watch your children grow and progress in their education and in their personal lives.

We have learned together, worked together, and laughed together…so I want you to be among the first to hear my happy news: I am getting married to a wonderful man, and my little Essie and I will be moving out of state to begin our new family this summer!

Leaving Issaquah Valley at the end of this school year is such a hard decision.

This is a special place where teachers, parents, and community members join together to focus on a single goal: helping all children succeed.

However, one of the most important lessons that you have personally taught me is that nothing is more important than family.

I am proud of Issaquah Valley. Our teachers are masters in their profession and excel in using differentiated instruction to meet the needs of a wide range of learners.

Students work together in an environment that fosters growth, mutual respect, and—most importantly—a desire to learn. I will leave here with many friendships, happy memories, and the expectation of bright futures of all of my Issaquah Valley students.

Jennell Hawthorne

Principal

Issaquah Valley Elementary