Over the years, I have seen significant financial support from alumni going to their public and private colleges and high schools.  There appears to be a far smaller interest by alumni in their elementary schools. Perhaps people believe that the secondary and collegiate education they received and the personal contacts they made at these institutions have had a vital impact on their professional careers and ultimate success in life.  The fact remains, however, that without the elementary and middle school experience as a foundation -- most especially learning to read and do math -- there may not have been a high school or a college diploma, nor a successful career or productive life in our futures.

In addition to the stellar academic learning that RPEMS provides, it is important to expose pre-high school students to learning experiences outside of the classroom.  For this reason, I have supported the rebuilding of the school's playground areas and physical education spaces, as well as help send 60 sixth graders to Echo Hill Outdoor School for a week each year.

I cherish the community of RPEMS--the hardworking administrators, teachers, parents and alumni who have defined our own brand of excellence.  Let's keep up the good work!