This is an exciting time of year with the multiple recognition events in which we honor the many special accomplishments of members of our staff and, of course, our students. As your school district superintendent, I can honestly tell you I am extremely proud of the outstanding achievements we have to celebrate, along with the marked improvement in our schools and our students’ academic performance.

Included in my remarks to graduating seniors at this year’s Honor Convocation, I urged the students that, no matter what course they chose in their professional life, to always make time for family. After much thought, I have decided it is time for me to take more time to enjoy my family. For this reason, on May 20 I delivered a letter to the Yakima School District Board of Directors stating my intent to retire after the 2008-09 school year.

It has been a privilege to serve as your Superintendent of Schools and I want to thank you for your continued support of the youth of our community, whether you are a community member, parent, or district staff member. I can assure you there is still much work to do, and as we close one school year, we are busy planning for the next. I am excited about the prospects, and I look forward to continuing our work together to provide all our students the opportunity for the best education possible.

Have a wonderful summer!

Benjamin A. Soria, Superintendent
Yakima School District