Los Gatos Schools Begin Aug. 20

The countdown began a few days ago, but now it's getting really close to Los Gatos schools opening their doors for their first day of instruction this academic year.

, school districts begin classes Monday, Aug. 20.

starts Tuesday, Aug. 21 with its 90 students returning to the organization's only school located at 19621 Black Road, in Los Gatos.

West Valley College, 14000 Fruitvale Ave., in Saratoga, begins its fall semester Aug. 27. The school offers University of California and California State University transfer programs.

Loma Prieta Joint Union School District Superintendent Corey Q. Kidwell summarized best what all district leaders and teachers are feeling with the official start of the 2012-13 school year.

"Welcome back to school!" he exclaimed in a letter sent to parents and guardians of the district's nearly 400 students. "It has been a very busy summer on campus and I hope your summer has been full in all the ways you'd hoped it would be. During the next few weeks, you will be getting to know new teachers and a principal for both schools," he wrote referring to andschools located in the Los Gatos Mountains.

"It's imperative that we work collaboratively to not just maintain, but to grow the strength and impact of our local schools. We are lucky to have strong and committed partners in this effort. It does take a mountain and we have a great one!"

As all superintendents, Kidwell invited parental and guardian involvement in all the events and activities planned this year at all the districts, home and school clubs, education foundations that raise money to pay for critical unfunded programs, and any other effort to help improve the education of Los Gatos' youth.

Diana Abbati, superintendent of the LGUSD, wrote in her welcoming letter that the district hopes to know all students' individual learning styles and talents, help them to think creatively and critically, act responsibly, communicate effectively, and apply knowledge in "a diverse and ever-changing world. "

LGUSD is approaching its 150th anniversary in 2013, she reminded the parents, and added that "we are proud to continue our tradition of excellence and commitment to safe, healthy, and high-performing schools for every child."

"Our vision is a reality due to a gifted, caring and talented staff, supportive community, and dedicated Board of Trustees focused on our mission to educate all children to their unique potential by teaching, modeling, and supporting the skills and attitudes that contribute to their development as globally and socially responsible citizens. It is my honor to represent such a fine group of individuals ready to make decisions in the best interest of our students."

Similarly, LGSUHSD Superintendent Bob Mistele welcomed his 3,000-plus students with a letter that's posted on the district's website.