During the final days of the 2022-23 school year last week, I enjoyed celebrating every minute with our students and staff. May can feel a little wild, but it’s packed full of incredible moments that highlight all the hard work our community has put forth this year. From IB exhibition projects and moving up ceremonies to field day and awards ceremonies, our students are sharing what they’ve learned and all the ways they’ve grown this year. I couldn’t be more proud of each and every one of them!
It has been a year of “Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges.” Our students have grown in leaps and bounds and you will see some of that growth as test scores for our students are finalized!
Students enjoyed a day outside to participate in field day competitions!
We're so proud of our 5th Graders who researched and presented on an issue in their community and related it to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Younger students got to come learn from their projects!
The end of the year brings many awards for our students, for demonstrating not only academic achievement but also based on the level of growth, and character trait demonstration.
Even as we close out one year, I can’t help but be excited this fall! After a year of serving as the Interim Director, I am delighted to accept the position permanently and continue in this role next year. In 2023-24, we will be “Discovering Possibilities,” exploring the next steps for our school to help every child grow in success. We have some exciting work ahead! I am excited to share with you that Diamond Jefferies has been promoted to Principal at ICS for the 2023-2024 school year. She has served as the Assistant Principal for the last 3 years. I am beyond thrilled to have this opportunity to recognize her for her commitment to the organization.
When asked why she chose ICS, Ms. Jefferies responded, “I LOVE ICS. The first time that I came here, I was bringing staff here on a school visit. I was sold from day one! I know this sounds cliche, but walking into ICS, you just FEEL DIFFERENT. I saw the camaraderie in the halls amongst staff and you saw the genuine care for students. It was so heartwarming to see so many children with genuine joy, despite what they looked like or what side of DeKalb they resided in. I think what keeps me here is being surrounded by like-minded people. The educators here are some of the most passionate people that I have ever met. My initial interactions with HR and those on the AP hiring panel were also pleasant. The leadership here is supportive and transparent, and I had never worked at a school where that is the case. They always say that teachers don’t leave schools–they leave administrators. I believe that to be true. I got the feeling that this place was different, and I was proved right. As a leader, I try to remember and embody that same sentiment.”
But before we start back on August, 7, 2023, I encourage you to find moments of rest and rejuvenation this summer. Take a small break and care for yourself and your family. I’ll see you back here in August!
With gratitude-
