Message from the Superintendent 8.12
July 27, 2012
It is with great honor and significant pride I welcome you to one of America’s most outstanding educational organizations. I especially welcome our school district citizens and parents to this website, and I urge you to frequently utilize the site as a primary source for information.
School District 308 encompasses 68.8 square miles and educates children from Oswego, Aurora, Montgomery, Plainfield, Joliet and Yorkville. With an operating budget of more than $143M and a total budget, including capital projects and bonds, of approximately $225M, we recognize the incredible responsibility provided to us. School District 308 is well-positioned to educate over 17,500 students and approximately 1,700 employees during the 2012-13 school year. Indeed, this is an exciting time to be a part of our school district.
As one of the 868 public school districts in Illinois, School District 308 is the 9th largest and one of the fastest growing school systems. Understandably, the economy has slowed student growth, yet the school district is still projecting over 500 new students this coming school year. It is exciting to be an educational leader in a school system selected by more and more parents to educate their children.
Already, I am in awe of our tremendous faculty, staff and leadership team members. The commitment and dedication to improving student achievement will be our first priority. School District 308 is rich in tradition and enjoys a long history of excellence in academics, athletics and activities. Although the school district has experienced unparalleled growth, the culture and environment are conducive to small learning communities focused on effective teacher instruction and high student achievement.
As Superintendent of Schools, I join our Board of Education in the strong desire to improve student learning through effective, long-term strategic planning. Together, we acknowledge the unique support from our taxpayers and remain keenly aware of the balance in sustaining citizen support, lean budgets and the complexity in managing a comprehensive educational system. We, however, are united in appreciation and gratitude for such caring, loyal and involved families and residents.
The mission of School District 308, a unique partnership of students, staff, families and community, is to ensure each student develops the capacity to thrive as a successful contributing citizen by providing exemplary educational experiences in a safe, caring and responsive learning environment. Let there be no mistake: the relentless pursuit of world-class teacher instruction and student achievement will be priority #1. If you are a school district citizen or parent, please join us in this pursuit. If you are considering moving to our area, I hope you will consider the advantages of our school system, recognize the quality of people, and in the end, choose to join us.
If we can be of assistance, please contact a member of our Board of Education, an educational team member, or me via the information at this website.
Best regards,
Dr. Matthew A. Wendt
Superintendent of Schools