Fenton Superintendent Sets Three Goals for 2011-12 School Year

Fenton schools' superintendent, Dr. Timothy Jalkanen, has his assignments for the 2011-12 school year. Working with the board of education, Jalkanen has set three goals for himself, which the board has approved.

The first is to increase student achievement throughout the (FAPS) district. This goal also appeared on Jalkanen's list for 2010-11. He always wants to improve student achievement, Jalkanen said.

"That's what we're all about."

Goal number two is to develop long-range plans for the school district. This includes all aspects of the district, such as academics, facilities and finances, he said.

The third goal is to continue to increase and improve communication throughout the school district and community. It means more communication with parents, staff and students, Jalkanen said. There are many people involved, since there are around 3,500 students in the school district, and their parents.

He wants to make sure FAPS is communicating effectively, and that it's communicating what is happening in the district with the community.

Throughout the school year, he will be working with the entire school district — staff, teachers, administrators and others — on his goals. It's also a collaborative effort with the school board, and Jalkanen will take the board's direction. He will update the board of education on his progress throughout the year, he said.