Stephen Gale Community Academy

October 8, 2008

Dear Eagles,

Well, we're off to another exciting year at the Gale Math and Science Academy (GMSA). We have wonderful things in store for all of our students and families this year. We are going to host the SES Program this year, offering after school tutoring to our students who need an extra boost. We are also going to have the After School All Stars Program again! This program allows Gale to keep its doors open longer, in an effort to provide our students with a safe place to be, during the most dangerous hours for students (2:45 - 5:00 p.m.). Unfortunately, this time period is when children find themselves in dangerous situations, due to the fact that many parents are still at work, and they have to make lots of decisions on their own. Let's make sure that our children are safe! PLEASE SIGN THEM UP FOR AN AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM.

In an effort to add even more special programming, and expand our hours further, I am also meeting with leaders of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Chicago (who want to run recreational programs at Gale Academy). More information will be comign soon regarding this program option. Make sure that you sign your child up for one of the programs being hosted by GMSA, or by the Chicago Park District!

The following programs are currently being offered:

1. T-Gro (Family Matters - Gale Annex)

2. Greensleeves (Howard Area Community Center - Gale Annex)

3. Gale Community Center (Chicago Park District - 1610 West Howard)

Programs scheduled to begin in October 2008:

1. SES Tutoring Programs (CPS - Gale Annex)

2. After School All-Stars (CPS - Gale Annex)

3. McCormick Boys and Girls Club Programming (Pending approval)

I am looking for parents to join me on October 17th at 5:00 p.m. for the Principal and Parent Pizza Party. We will be discussing the Track E calendar, which I would like for our school to switch to for the 2009 - 2010 school year. I wanted to have the opportunity to tell everyone about the wonderful benefits that come from this departure from the traditional school calendar. One of the major benefits is a shortened summer, and the addition of intercession breaks in October, December, and April. I believe that once you learn more about the Track E calendar, you will love it!

If you have any questions or concerns about anything pertaining to the Gale School community, feel free to contact the administrative team at (773) 534-2100 or (773) 534-2250.

Yours for Children,

Richard P. Glass, Jr., M.Ed.

Principal