This letter was sent to officials and staff of the Seattle School District upon the news that the superintendent would leave the district next summer.

By Raj Manhas

I am writing to let you know that the 2006-2007 school year will be my final one as superintendent. This has been a difficult personal decision for me to make because of the professional and personal satisfaction I have received while working on behalf of our students. I am grateful to you, the district's staff, and our school board for allowing me to serve as superintendent of Seattle Public Schools. It has been both a blessing and an honor.

The timing of my announcement is appropriate as I will be completing my final year of a three-year contract. It also provides the district sufficient time to conduct a formal search process that allows for community and staff input in the selection process. In addition, I believe I have fulfilled my responsibilities as superintendent and have accomplished much during my tenure thanks to the dedication and skill of our staff, families, and community partners.

Seattle students outperformed state averages at almost every grade and subject area on the Washington Assessment of Student Learning. More than 80 percent of our fourth graders are proficient in reading, 60 percent at seventh and 82 percent at 10th. Writing scores also improved with 79 percent of our 10th graders meeting the state standards. While math continues to be an area of focus, the district is implementing a new math curriculum adoption and we expect to see similar gains in this content area.

In terms of district finances, we anticipate building our reserves to over $20 million, about 5 percent of the non-grant general operating fund. This is a remarkable accomplishment given the financial position just four years ago. We also addressed the district's structural deficit and budget gap with the closure of seven school buildings and implemented the first round of cost savings in transportation by moving Franklin and Ballard High School students from yellow bus service to Metro bus service.

These are just a few of the successes we've seen in the last few years. None of it would have been possible were it not for the skill, dedication and commitment to excellence that the district's staff has demonstrated each and every day. Employees in this district have created a culture of learning and peer support that embodies the best opportunity for continuous improvement and further progress in our schools. We also have strong relationships with our labor associations, Principals Association of Seattle Schools, Seattle Education Association, and Local 609, which has created stability for our schools and students.

I want to thank the board, staff and community for the opportunity to serve as superintendent. We have an outstanding school district and I know the fine work will continue. The 2006-2007 school year will be busy and I have every intention of completing the work at hand. Some of the important initiatives facing us include two levy measures scheduled for February, implementing seven school closures and helping school communities transition into new buildings, continued examination of student transportation and assignment, and a relentless focus on academics to improve students' math, reading and writing skills.

We must never lose sight of why we are here - and that is to ensure that the students of this school district receive the finest education we are capable of providing. Our children look to us for guidance, and we must offer them that - not only with our words but also with our deeds. We must find a way to work together for the common good.

Seattle Public Schools is poised to be a model of public education in our nation. Educating our children to be contributing citizens in a democratic society is an awesome challenge. It is a task that we readily accept, but we cannot do alone. I am asking for your commitment to help all students reach their full potential by getting involved and supporting your local schools.

Raj Manhas is superintendent of Seattle Public Schools.