From the Superintendent's Desk - October 12, 2012
Good Friday afternoon, everyone.
I cannot believe school has been in session for two months already! This year is off to a great start, and from what I see and hear – it’s all because of your dedication and passion for our students.
Speaking of our students, my big highlight this week was meeting with our High School Student Advisory Council. This group was formed last year in order for me to hear directly from students about concerns and ideas. It has been truly remarkable to hear things from their perspective. These meetings provide me with unique insight and some great ideas! I am grateful for their time and service to the district, and I applaud their efforts.
In other good news, I had the opportunity to spend Tuesday morning with 1000 business leaders, local politicians, and community partners at the annual Prayer Breakfast, organized by the Charleston Leadership Foundation. It was a great way to start my morning. As I glanced around the room, I was reminded about the limitless potential that exists when groups such as this get together, and focus their energy on a singular issue.
If you have read these “desk” letters, you have seen reference to the Teacher Incentive Fund grant that we recently won, totaling $8.8 million for the first two years with a possible total of $23.7 million over five years. The grant was highly competitive, and will help us continue to recruit and reward high quality principals and teachers. I wanted to take this time to personally thank the smart, dedicated staff that pulled this immense grant application together. Thank you to Lori Bates, Bill Briggman, Laura Donnelly, Kevin Eakes, Sarah Earle, John Emerson, Christine File, Anita Huggins, Audrey Lane, Kathleen Magliacane, Allen Milburn, Melissa Parrish, Linda Payne, Helen Plexico, Chris Ryan, Terri Shannon, LaTisha Vaugh-Brandon, and last but not least -- project lead Melissa Matarazzo, and grants coordinator, Alicia Kokkinis.
And finally, there are some upcoming events and meetings that I would like to bring to your attention. There will be three public meetings next week to discuss possible changes to the voluntary transfer process for parents. For more information on dates and times, please visit our media line. In addition, make sure to mark your calendars and attend the School Choice Fair on Saturday, October 20 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Burke High School.
Thank you for your continued partnership, and until next week…
-Dr. Nancy J. McGinley
