Dear Lowell Families,

Thank you for your continued support, commitment and dedication to making our school a model for providing a quality education to every student, every day.  It really is difficult to believe that this is nearly the last Lowell Log of the 2013-2014 school year!  Time really does pass so quickly, and as we move towards testing and the summer months, while the year is far from over, and there is still much work to be done, at times I find myself in "reflection mode".  With so much to look back on -- countless memories; the hard work of our teachers, families and students; working together to bring fun and educational enrichment opportunities to our 762 students - we are indeed blessed and fortunate to be a part of the Lowell community.

First, I would be remiss if I did not thank all of our teachers and staff for yet another stellar year.  So much goes into maintaining and moving all of our students towards proficiency and beyond - academically, socially and behaviorally.  While many of these efforts by our staff are visible, many are not readily apparent to everyone (which speaks to the sense of humility that is pervasive at our school).  From "big things", such as engaging in on-going professional development to help ensure that each of our students benefit from a world class education, to the smaller - yet equally important things - such as volunteering time after school to provide additional support or enrichment, our teachers and staff are without a doubt the best of the best!  Nothing beats the rare combination of high expectations, coupled with a warm, nurturing environment and a commitment to continuous improvement - our staff embodies these qualities and so many more.  I know that everyone shares my strong belief that an integral part of this collaborative effort includes everyone on our campus, including office staff , teachers, custodians, classified staff and others who work behind the scenes.

Our students are without a doubt the product of families who work tirelessly to actively support their children's education.  It is commonplace at Lowell to see over 520 active PTA members, and over 700 volunteers (VIPS) providing their time, talents and treasure to benefit not just their own child, but all of our sea star scholars.  I am amazed and, quite frankly, am deeply and forever grateful for the "embarrassment of riches" (as the age-old saying goes) that our school enjoys.  Of course, these "riches" take many forms -- families reaching out to those who are less fortunate (including students and programs at other schools in Long Beach); VIPS supporting our teachers with small group instruction; a PTA Board, Association and committees that not only pull off fun events for families, but also ensure that their knowledge and processes are systematically passed forward to incoming or newly participating families; people constantly asking, "how can we help?", "what does your school need?", and "tell me when and where to be there, and we'll make it happen" (whatever the event or occasion); and finally, the humble, gracious way in which we all pull together to make our school a better place.  Just as important as the tremendously generous monetary donations that allow us to continue our enrichment programs - both academic and non-academic in nature - everyone's dedication inspires, invigorates and sustains our efforts as one school, one family and one community of learners.

Thank you, again, everyone, for coming together to add to the already rich and distinguished Lowell Legacy.  Our school is indeed a better place precisely because of not only our willingness to work together to benefit all of our students, but because our teachers, families, and staff continue to give of themselves selflessly to benefit all of our students.

With Deep Gratitude and Appreciation,

Sam Platis
Principal, Lowell Elementary School

Beginning in January, we will begin the 5^th to 6^th grade application process. I will be sending information home regarding the application process as well as a schedule of Family Information Nights at the Middle Schools. 

Rogers Middle School will be having their Middle School Information Night on

January 16^th, more information will be coming. Keep an eye open for more information and flyers in your child’s backpack.

Feel free to come by with any questions or you can email me at dghughes@lbschools.net.

Packets will be available in the main office beginning January 28.
Click here to view registration information and requirements.