Summer vacation has come to an end for the beloved flock of eaglets who attend Beaver Dam Elementary School. Alexander Eagle, school mascot and protector, joined top eagle Mrs. Leavitt and the entire Beaver Dam School community in welcoming back the students for another exciting school year.
The day began with an assembly which provided students with an entertaining and meaningful lesson. Mrs. Leavitt had students help her send items over a magical “Enlarging Wall”. A small doll went over and a huge one came back. A little pencil became large enough for a giant. However when a child went behind the wall, he came back just the same. That’s because the enlarging of one’s mind is each student’s personal responsibility. Learning is something each of us has got to work on and find success with by putting forth effort; nobody is going to enlarge our minds except ourselves.
It was amid squawks of glee that a giant Alexander Eagle emerged from behind the wall. The students are always happy to see their protector and friend. Alexander led the entire flock of eaglets in a mirthful rendition of the “chicken dance”. On this happy note students marched to their classes and spent a happy and productive first day of school. The eaglets agreed that the school nest was more fun than the searing summer heat and it was “great” to be back with friends!
Beaver Dam Elementary students have a proud legacy of learning to build upon. Although the Arizona Department of Education no longer uses the model of “No Child Left Behind”, the eaglets’ test results from May 2012 reflected adequate yearly progress under the old model, the only elementary school in the Virgin Valley to do so. In the new Arizona accountability system, Beaver Dam Elementary starts the year with a successful passing grade in all subject areas. The overall passing rate on tests progressed from 54% to 62%. The learning curve is definitely on an upward trend!
The school calendar will undergo some significant changes during the 2012-13 school year. Parents are encouraged to keep a copy of the calendar in a convenient location so that they will be aware of these changes. The elementary school will begin at 8:40 and be dismissed at 2:55. Delicious breakfasts at Miss Susan’s restaurant will be served at 8:20. The office eagles are always pleased to address questions and can be reached at 928-347-5796. The staff has prepared many motivational, educational, and just plain fun activities to make the coming school year memorable and successful!