Letter from Alex P. Apostle, Ph.D.

Dear Community Leader:

Missoula County Public Schools is on the march in earnest to ensure academic achievement and high school graduation for all students. Our goal as a community must be academic success for all students and a 100 percent high school graduation rate.

The School District has been working with prominent community leaders from local organizations to develop a lasting campaign to encourage students to stay in school through graduation. The organizations include service clubs, community non-profit partners, the University of Montana, and many businesses.

It is our hope that this process will instill the self confidence, intelligence, courage and desire for all students to complete high school and further pursue a variety of educational options after high school graduation. Through this collaborative effort we can ensure continued economic prosperity and a continuance of the life we all enjoy.

On Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2010, we have scheduled a press conference and rally which will formally launch “Graduation Matters Missoula.” The conference will be held at the New Phyllis J. Washington Education Center on the campus of the University of Montana. The event will begin at 10:30 a.m. sharp in the 3rd Floor Atrium and conclude no later than 11:30 a.m.

Based on your involvement in the community, I would personally like to invite you to this very important press conference. Your presence at this event will speak volumes about its importance and potential impact on our city, county and state. If we have time, you may be asked to say a few words about the importance of staying in school, working hard and graduating, but overall just your presence will have significant impact.

This is a big moment for all of us. I realize you are very busy, but I hope you will make time to be a part of this very important effort. Please see the attached campus map for parking information.

I look forward to your valued participation and involvement in this important program. Please call or e-mail if you have any questions. An RSVP would be helpful to Lesli Brassfield at 728-2400, extension 1024, or lbrassfield@mcps.k12.mt.us.

Respectfully,

Alex P. Apostle, Ph.D.
Superintendent, Missoula County Public Schools