Why Our School Should Stay Open: Dan O. Root

Patch is asking PTO and PTA groups from all elementary and middle schools to wrtie about why their school should not be considered for closure. The district is considering closing one middle and one elementary school. So far, the distrcit has said there is no list, so by logical extension, all schools are being considered.

By Bethany Smith, Dan O. Root PTO President:

As the FSUSD board begins the unfortunate duty of determining which of its elementary schools it will close for the 2012-2013 school-year, the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) of Dan O. Root makes this argument for the removal of our school from consideration.

Dan O. Root II Elementary School has consistently maintained quality in education and a strong dedication to their students and families.  The school as been recognized as a California Distinguished School 3 times by the state, a testament to their commitment to educational excellence.  Our school doesn't stop at reading, writing, and arithmetic, though.  

The staff and PTO at Dan O. Root strive to enrich each child's experience by providing fun activities and interesting learning opportunities.  Student Council, supported by dedicated teachers Mrs. Christensen and Mrs. Noack, offers a fun way to introduce children to leadership and democracy.  

The PTO provides exciting family events like dances, movie nights, and Book Fair engage both students and their families in school enjoyment beyond the classroom. Entertainers and other special educational programs are brought in as unique learning opportunities.  

Our PTO raises funds for things like new technology that our classrooms would otherwise go without, such as interactive white boards which engage students growing up in a digital world, and allotments to teachers helping them provide necessary items for their students' education.  

In recent years our school has also striven to reach beyond its grounds, a site goal as issued by the District.  It's important to us that we not only support our students and their families, but also contribute to the community as a whole.

The PTO has assisted in doing this by hosting community events such as last year's Field Day and our upcoming Flea Market planned for June 2, 2012.  

Ultimately, we feel that a school like Dan O. Root not only has proven itself, but could serve as a model to other schools in our district and beyond.  

It has been and continues to be a place we can send our children and know they will receive both a great education and enriching opportunities beyond their classroom walls.  We hope the District recognizes this and gives our school the opportunity to serve students and our community for many years to come.

Does your child go to Dan O. Root? Why do you think the school should not be considered for closure?