Welcome back to a new year full of exciting work! When I consider this year, I can honestly tell you it is somewhat “surreal” to write to you from the capacity of Interim Executive Director. I was settling into my role as Director of Operations and Finance when change and transition occurred. As you know, when opportunity knocks, we must answer. Each day, our students offer me examples of stepping up and taking on new challenges. Therefore, it is an honor for me to serve in the capacity of Interim Executive Director, working alongside who I believe to be the best teachers and staff in the county.  

Where are we going in this new season? Several ideas came to mind this summer as I hoped to illustrate the work ahead. Ultimately, we rested on the image of “Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges.” This theme for the year will allow us to tap into our past while envisioning what the future holds in regard to academic achievement, student and staff well-being, and our overall school community. 

Last year we broke barriers by offering more than 350 doses of vaccinations to our families, allowing us to continue in-person education. We provided more than 300 hours of translation for families so caregivers could stay involved in their children’s education. We also saw 60% of students attain grade level in reading despite barriers to success inherent in a Title I school. We have done the work and demonstrated that all our children – regardless of background – can break barriers and excel with a world-class education.

Now, in the next 20 years, we hope to build bridges to unite our community. We are all different, yet we remain the same in our desire to be global citizens in a world that is often so uncertain. We will do this work together, and I can’t wait to see what we are able to accomplish.

I am looking forward to “Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges” with you this year.  Enjoy this last weekend of summer, and I am looking forward to seeing you bright and early Monday, August 8!

Best regards,