Dear Educators,
As we continue our work this week, let’s reaffirm our commitment to supporting families, being great teammates and keeping student success at the center of all we do. Our work is more than just about academic achievement—it is about equipping our students with the tools to navigate the world confidently and purposefully.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. reminded us that “the function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education.” We are not just preparing students for tests; we are preparing them for life. Our collective efforts must ensure that they leave our schools not only well-versed in knowledge but also empowered to advocate for justice, shape industries and lead their communities.
W.E.B. Du Bois emphasized that “of all the civil rights for which the world has struggled and fought for 5000 years, the right to learn is undoubtedly the most fundamental.” Education is the bedrock of change—it fuels progress in the courtroom, in boardrooms and beyond. Booker T. Washington also underscored the transformative power of knowledge, stating that “if you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else.”
As we move forward, let’s remember that our investment in students is an investment in a future where justice is pursued not only through protest but also through the power of education, advocacy and leadership in every field. Together, let’s keep the focus on ensuring that every student is equipped to make an impact, no matter where their path leads.
Respectfully,
Dr. Tony Smith
Deputy Superintendent
