Stand up straight, walk in line, follow the rules and you’ll be fine; that’s one of the first impressions you will get when you enter the doors of Little Falls School No. 1.
As the district welcomes new principal Gary Borges, also seen with school opening this week are many other changes that have taken place during the summer. Apparent changes are all over School No. 1 with many more on the horizon.
"I hope to replicate the family oriented close knit feel of the community right within the school," said Borges.
The renovations began with many facility upgrades including a newly restored cafeteria boasting fresh paint and a new floor. Thirty new desktop computers in the technology room have been added accompanying a 50 inch television and a smart-board helping to create a brand new state of the art lab. The lab will be available to all of the teachers when schedules allow.
Pull down blinds have been added for safety and comfort while making School No. 1 professional and presentable. In addition to upgrades of cabinets and desks, two classrooms have been totally renovated and painted.
"We are slowly chipping away at revamping all of the surroundings in the school hoping to create a bright, cheery atmosphere, all designed to produce positive attitudes that ultimately create a positive effect for the many possibilities of learning," Borges said. He added that thanks go to Superintendent of Schools Dr. Bruce deLyon, Borges’ secretary Maryann Swanson and the custodial staff for accomplishing what has been done this summer.
Borges also promises that he will present a parent/student handbook so everyone has a full understanding of what is expected, the school Web site will be user friendly and in a diligent attempt to increase communication, a weekly newsletter will be sent home with the students each Friday.
In addition to a hard copy, the newsletter will be posted on the Web site for the more computer savvy. One way or another parents and guardians will be well informed of school activities.
Borges will also introduce goals for the student body by revamping the Panther logo and implementing "Panther Pride," which will include but is not limited to: student of the month, striving for academic and social excellence and bringing out the positives in students by utilizing teamwork, competitive edge and pride with the "Three R Guideline" - respect ones self, respect surroundings and respect others.
"If children appreciate the three R’s then all else follows, students come first but respect is above all else or things fail," said Borges, adding that there will be a stringent discipline policy.
"The students will be successful as individuals and parents will be proud," Borges said. "I will work closely with my staff taking the students as individuals and guiding them toward one common goal, we will prepare them for high school and get them confident."
Borges affirmed that his philosophy is to provide the best quality education and well rounded experiences for the most of students in the school. "Children are perceptive if we truly believe then they’ll truly believe," he said.
"I want to thank everyone for the opportunity. If I can be considered one 10th in the company of Ray Mead then I’m on the right track," he continued. "I truly care about the students and have their best interest in mind. I’m very excited about the new school year."
