Dear friends and families,

Welcome to Manzanita Elementary, where ‘Everyone Makes a Difference.’ We are a school of tradition and excellence that serves Pre-school through 5th grade. Manzanita school provides all students with a friendly and encouraging study environment, high teaching standards and support services designed to meet the individual differences among our learners. We maintain high standards for ourselves by employing highly qualified teachers and support staff and through a continual evaluation of school and community needs.

Community friends and parents are always welcome at Manzanita. The partnerships we have formed with grandparent volunteer readers, Art Masters parent volunteers, our PTA and PAWs (reading with dogs) have greatly enhanced our educational program.

Manzanita school offers many extra-curricular clubs and events including: chess, hand chimes choir, vocal choir, computer club, student council, S.T.A.R.S. and art. Every child participates in a book publishing project. Our before school reading groups are a wonderful way to build reading comprehension and have proven very successful.

On behalf of the entire staff, I want to welcome the new families that will join us for the 2007 – 2008 school year, and welcome back families who are returning to Manzanita. I look forward to my second year as principal. I am certain, with all of the exciting events and goals we have planned, that we will have an academically engaged and fulfilling school year. Together we will be “Setting Sail for Success!”

Sincerely,

Gretchen Dorner
Principal