On Friday I attended the Imagination Celebration at Berlin Elementary School. It was a wonderful, enjoyable and rewarding time and one of my favorite experiences since becoming the Interim Superintendent of Schools. Student work was displayed throughout the school. People were outside on the playground eating picnic style and enjoying Giffy’s BBQ. The rooms and corridors were teaming with students, teachers, parents, grandparents and other members of the community. They were all smiling and proud. I had many stop me and comment on how much they appreciated what everybody in the District is doing. In the gym the kindergartners had constructed two story high animals including an elephant and giraffe. That was impressive, but what was more impressive were the books written by the kindergarten students. I picked up several from the display and read them. Not all that long ago most believed that children that young could not write and certainly not compose a story. There are too many wonderful displays ranging from Inuit to Rain Forest to Iroquois to mention everyone but all were outstanding.
The comments from parents, teachers and community members attending were welcomed. Every person I spoke to was impressed and beaming with pride. Many told me that they wanted to find ways to work together to bring attention to all the great things that are happening in our schools. The most common theme was simple – we are going put the turmoil of the past behind and find positive ways to bring the District together.
I am so proud to serve as Interim Superintendent in a district that does such wonderful things for students. I am equally proud to be associated with all those who are moving forward by working together and tuning out those who thrive on controversy. Thank you for letting me be part of this.