Claire

20 Iyar 5770

May 4, 2010

Dear Parents,

This has been an exciting year for Robbins Hebrew Academy, continuing in a proud USDS tradition.  We have begun the first phase of our Strategic Planning Process by conducting a needs assessment in a variety of areas this year.  The formal Strategic Planning Process will begin in September and all decisions will be based on Research and Best Practices in Teaching and Learning.

We are now in the process of examining the data that has been collected.  One of the first areas of consideration is the uniform/dresscode policy.  A majority of our Parents on the survey noted that they are in favor of a school uniform.  As such, we are forming a committee to examine whether RHA will adopt a uniform/dresscode policy commencing in the 2011-2012 school year.

This committee will examine various uniform/dresscode options and will make recommendations to the Board of Directors.  A decision will be made only after careful consideration and open consultation with Parents.  We invite you to participate in this process in the following two ways:

• If you would like to serve on the committee, please send an email to Cathy Doomernik, Executive Administrative Assistant to the Head of School at cdoomernik@rhacademy.ca.  The committee group will be finalized to ensure a cross-section of Parents from both campuses and various grades.

• If you have any comments or concerns you would like to express to the committee, you can post them on the discussion group site in the Clairifications blog (http://clairifications.ca/claire) and all feedback will be taken into account.

We invite everyone to be a part of this process.

There are many reasons why the school decided to pursue consideration of a school uniform/dresscode option.  Here are some of the reasons:

• Uniforms level the playing field by providing a standard dress for all
• Helps students focus on academics versus social trends
• Builds pride in the school and out in the community
• Builds school spirit and enhances a positive culture within the school community
• Economical advantage to Parents
• A quick and efficient “getaway” in the morning

We look forward to this inclusive process and reporting back to Parents next year.

Sincerely,

Claire Sumerlus

Head of School