Community engagement at its best

The Carl Joseph Walker-Hoover Foundation Anti-Bullying Back-to-School 5k Road Race/2K WALK that took place over the weekend at Forest Park is a shining example of the kind of community engagement that makes a real difference. I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the foundation for your great work in organizing an event that drew together people from inside and outside of our city borders; children and adults; people of all ethnic backgrounds; from various organizations and faith-based affiliations. Just as importantly, I extend a hearty congratulations to all who took part in the event. Your involvement and engagement in issues that impact youth is critical to the mission of Springfield Public Schools; and the only way we can expect real change to take place.