What a fantastic couple of weeks this has been! Just when I was down in the dumps about finding a permanent home, we have begun to build the school in other ways. We have been interviewing all week for three Middle School positions: a full-time teaching assistant, a math/science teacher, and an English/history teacher. We had a lot of resumes sent our way via word-of-mouth and newspaper ads. And so far we have made two offers and had two acceptances. I am so very happy that all our Atala kids are going to have the best!

We now have 67 children registered and already 54 have re-enrolled for next year. I'm guessing we'll be around 80 for the 2012-13 academic year.

Atala is undergoing accreditation this year and next (two different groups) and if successful, we will be able to offer more services to additional families. (accreditation brings with it a lot of bonuses in the elementary/second education field)

My own two children are doing great: Liam won the Atala Chess Club tournament this year and Livya tied for third. (I have to brag occasionally). I'm so proud of everyone in the Chess Club (I'm the coach). We became an official US Chess Federation affiliate and will begin competing next year!

Next week I'm traveling with the Upper Elementary/Middle School class and taking everyone to Clearwater to see Winter the dolphin from the "Dolphin's Tale" as well as Tarpon Springs (a Greek sponge-diving community), Sarasota's Ringling Estate, Science Museum, and then ending with a search for shark's teeth at Venice Beach. Can't wait! What a great end to a fabulous second year!

Spread Your Wings!