Schools Superintendent Elliott Landon today urged families moving to Westport for the new school year and parents of entering kindergartners or children transferring from private schools to register their children as soon as possible,
“Please don’t wait until the last minute,” Landon said in a statement. “Let us know now that you are here so we may plan for the optimal education for your youngsters.”
Those who are not sure of their district elementary or middle school can find the information on the school district Web site or call the superintendent’s office, (203)341-1026.
The superintendent said he monitors enrollment closely during the summer to avoid September surprises that could lead to excessively large class sizes or the need to divide a class after school has started.
Both are situations which parents prefer to avoid as well, he said.
“Preparations for 2009-10 are well under way,” said Landon. “There are many elements that go into the planning process for a new school year, and everything is affected by enrollment.
“The sooner we have a firm count on the number of students in each school and grade, the better we can plan. If we find we need an additional teacher, the earlier we can recruit the more likely we are to have a choice of good candidates.”
Every elementary school will have a “meet the teacher” day on Aug. 31, and the PTAs hold kindergarten socials prior to the start of school, so early registration is advisable to take advantage of those plans, the superintendent said.
Individual schools’ summer office hours may vary, but all are open between the hours of 8 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. It is best to call for an appointment to register, Landon said.
