The first day of classes for students will be on Tues., Aug. 17.  The school day will start at 7:30 a.m. and end at 2:30 p.m.
Car riders will be able to be picked up at this time; however, the buses will not depart from school until 3 p.m. From 2:30 p.m. until 3 p.m., students will be allowed to attend study halls to receive extra assistance on homework, if needed. Students will be asked to report to the gym upon arrival at school. Grade level areas will be designated. The homeroom teacher or advisory teacher will escort students to class at 7:30 a.m.
We are asking that parents who are enrolling students for the first time come to the office during the week of Aug. 9-13 between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. to complete the necessary paperwork. A copy of the student’s birth certificate, immunization record and proof of residency will be needed for the enrollment process.
Open house will be Mon., Aug. 16 from 6-7:30 p.m. A general assembly will be held in the gymnasium at 6 p.m. to allow for introductions of staff members. A tour of the facility will follow with students having the opportunity to leave their school supplies in their classrooms.
Also, during the tour, I would encourage each of you to stop by the computer lab to see the newly remodeled lab, thanks to the PTO. The evening will conclude by having everyone return to the gym at 7:30 p.m. to enjoy refreshments.
The lunch prices will remain at $1.75 with extra milk being $0.35.
Angela Elliott and J.D. Hicks will be driving the buses for us again this year.  They will be contacting each family on their routes to advise everyone of the expected pick-up and drop-off times.
Teachers have spent a lot of time at school this summer preparing for the 2010-2011 school year. All their preparation will ensure that optimal learning will take place.
Below is a list of the faculty and staff at Strain-Japan for the 2010-2011 school year:
Mrs. Anita Studdard-Principal/Superintendent; Mrs. Linda Meek-Kindergarten; Mrs. Cynthia Bleckman- Grades 1 and 2; Mrs. Kelly Webers-Grades 3 and 4; Mrs. Sharon Head-Art; Mrs. Deborah Schroeder-Music.
Mr. Gregory Stotler-Librarian, Technology, Social Studies 7 and 8; Mr. Mark Dace-Middle School English, Social Studies 5 and 6, Reading 7 and 8; Mrs. Alfredine Slaby-Middle School Math and Science; Mrs. Samantha Shoemaker-Primary Reading.
Mrs. Pat Songer-Resource Room Teacher, Science 5, Reading 5 and 6, Speech Implementer; Mrs. Edie Bombach-Title I; Mrs. Krystal Hulsey-Office, Health Aide; Ms. Amanda Strothkamp-Secretary/Bookkeeper; Mrs. Shirley Emory-Cook; Mrs. Darlene Blankenship-Custodial Staff.
Members of the Strain-Japan R-16 Board of Education are: Mark Thurmond, president; Scott Cassidy, vice president; Carol Cunio, treasurer; Dawn Bristow, John Licklider, Chris King and Penny Wells.