A Message to Our CommunityDecember 2002

The holiday season is once again upon us and we are gearing up for spending time with friends and loved ones. As we celebrate our traditions and cultures, we turn our thoughts to peace, goodwill and giving. We focus on unity and what it means to stand united for the common good. This is the essence of collaboration: identifying common goals and values -- to leverage resources and increase productivity. In the end we are effective in achieving our vision.

In that spirit of collaboration, we are excited to be hosting an innovative curriculum conference on January 30th at our offices in Hayward. During the three day conference, participants will enjoy educational seminars, workshops and lectures showcasing exemplary projects and creative collaborations. The event -- Working Together for Educational Excellence and Equity to Enhance Student Learning -- provides the perfect opportunity to see the positive results that come from unique partnerships with a shared vision and goal.

The Alameda County Office of Education is proud of the work we are performing through collaborations. Partnerships with our districts continue to grow and develop as we focus on the practical needs of educators and administrators. ACOE has made significant progress in teacher recruitment and training, professional development and youth leadership and development. We invite you to explore this site to learn more about the programs and services we offer.

In the spirit of the season, we would like to mention a new partnership that focuses on something we all strive for: peace and learning alternatives to violence. The Peace Education Network (PEN) is a collaboration of educators artists, social justice activists, clergy and community organizations. Together we are helping youth discover an alternative vision and voice for what is possible. Children must play a central role if we are to address the problems of intolerance and violence in our communities and in our world. The practice of peace, unity and goodwill extends beyond the holidays and into the workings of our everyday lives.

Sheila Jordan is the County Superintendent of Schools. She may be reached at 670-4144 or by e-mail at acoesuperintendent@acoe.org.