Dear Citizens:

The Palo Verde Unified School District has reason for optimism and concern.  On a positive note, the School Board has recently approved programs to benefit our students including a Transitional Kindergarten Class, a Community Day School expanded to include grades 7 -12, and a Home School program also for grades 7-12. Details about these programs will be announced soon and the programs will be operational by August.  Also causing optimism, Adult Education as well as our Summer School program is transitioning to online course offerings guided by a classroom teacher. This change will provide our students with a variety of high quality instructional offerings not currently available in school district while we benefit taxpayers by trimming our operational cost.  Finally, the District is in the process of appointing new administrators to serve at the Palo Verde Valley High School, Blythe Middle School, and Margaret White Elementary School.  I anticipate that these individuals will be Board-approved in June to begin their service shortly thereafter.

On a not so positive note, the District continues to face a grim budget situation expected to last two years or more. After four years of reduction, our budget must be reduced another 10% next year and an additional 15% the following year, assuming that no additional cuts will be needed.  Though budget problems are not unique to our district, they are certainly very real and will impact our students and staff.  

I have enjoyed my work in the 2011-2012 school year and look forward to serving the community in the year ahead. Again, we have reasons for optimism and celebration, including the success of our students in academics and school-related programs such as athletics, FFA, JROTC, AVID, music, and so much more.

I wish our graduates success in the years ahead, and wish all of you a safe and productive summer. 

Bob Bilek, Acting Superintendent / Director of Human Resources

Palo Verde Unified School District