Monday, November 22, 2010
Happy Thanksgiving
As we take a few days off to enjoy family, food and friends, I would like say Happy Thanksgiving to all who comprise the Springfield Public Schools. Our family is huge, nearly 30,000 of us – from students and teachers to custodians and administrators. We each have an important place at the table and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as Superintendent of this school district. I wish each and every one of you a happy and joyous holiday.
Monday, November 8, 2010
An unforgettable act of bravery
High School of Science and Technology student Frederick Rivera was due all the publicity he received in the local media recently when the School Committee honored him for bravery.
Frederick was being honored for his actions in coming to the aid of a fellow student recently when he noticed that student was sorely outnumbered (seven to one) in a fight that had erupted before school.
It is easy for a student, and even adults, to utter the right words, participate in the politically correct forums and even speak the popular language of the day. But the true measure of a person is weighed by their actions. Frederick Rivera acted in a way that was heroic, selfless, and admirable. It was heartwarming to see the pride that was so evident in the faces of Frederick’s family as Mayor Sarno presented him with a plaque at the School Committee meeting last week. The honor belongs to not only to Frederick but also to his family because as the mayor stated “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” But Frederick’s bravery has made an impression on more than elected officials and relatives. During the School Committee meeting, Student Representative Daniella Brown, also a student at Sci Tech, said Frederick’s actions have resonated throughout the school and have helped build a more positive school culture.
As I watched and read the news reports that followed the School Committee ceremony in Frederick’s honor, I was filled with pride. More than that, his actions should give us all pause to ask ourselves what would have done.
Frederick was being honored for his actions in coming to the aid of a fellow student recently when he noticed that student was sorely outnumbered (seven to one) in a fight that had erupted before school.
It is easy for a student, and even adults, to utter the right words, participate in the politically correct forums and even speak the popular language of the day. But the true measure of a person is weighed by their actions. Frederick Rivera acted in a way that was heroic, selfless, and admirable. It was heartwarming to see the pride that was so evident in the faces of Frederick’s family as Mayor Sarno presented him with a plaque at the School Committee meeting last week. The honor belongs to not only to Frederick but also to his family because as the mayor stated “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” But Frederick’s bravery has made an impression on more than elected officials and relatives. During the School Committee meeting, Student Representative Daniella Brown, also a student at Sci Tech, said Frederick’s actions have resonated throughout the school and have helped build a more positive school culture.
As I watched and read the news reports that followed the School Committee ceremony in Frederick’s honor, I was filled with pride. More than that, his actions should give us all pause to ask ourselves what would have done.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Students shine when adults give their time
It's always rewarding, heartwarming and inspiring any time I am with students. Last week was no exception as I visited DeBerry and Bowles schools for special events taking place there. As always, it was all about the children - but the events were made possible due to the generous engagement of adults. Justice Roderick Ireland delivered heartfelt, simple yet poignant messages of perseverance and self-confidence when he read a story to DeBerry students as part of the Links to Libraries celebrity readers program.
At Bowles, Freedom Credit Union pledged to start a bank account - with $5 in it - for every Bowles student. The program has been linked to strong academic performance and good character; and the lessons that this new partnership will teach Bowles students about financial literacy are priceless. I'm grateful to Mayor Sarno and Congressman Neal for joining us for the launch of the exciting program at Bowles.
During a recent visit to Boland School, I quickly noticed that student progress there is visible to anyone who enters that building. The educators there have done a fantastic job of posting important information such as attendance and proficiency rates up on the walls for all to see - without identifying students - of course. It's a small exercise, but a giant leap toward school improvement - and one that all schools within our district have initiated.
At all three schools, the engagement of teachers was palpable as energy filled the rooms and the smiling faces of students greeted me around every corner.
At Bowles, Freedom Credit Union pledged to start a bank account - with $5 in it - for every Bowles student. The program has been linked to strong academic performance and good character; and the lessons that this new partnership will teach Bowles students about financial literacy are priceless. I'm grateful to Mayor Sarno and Congressman Neal for joining us for the launch of the exciting program at Bowles.
During a recent visit to Boland School, I quickly noticed that student progress there is visible to anyone who enters that building. The educators there have done a fantastic job of posting important information such as attendance and proficiency rates up on the walls for all to see - without identifying students - of course. It's a small exercise, but a giant leap toward school improvement - and one that all schools within our district have initiated.
At all three schools, the engagement of teachers was palpable as energy filled the rooms and the smiling faces of students greeted me around every corner.
Monday, October 25, 2010
SPS wins International Award for Budget Excellence
I was delighted to learn recently that The Association of School Business Officials International awarded Springfield Public Schools the Meritorious Budget Award for excellence in the preparation and presentation of its 2010-2011 annual budget. This is the first time Springfield Public Schools has received such an award and I am extremely proud of our Budget and Finance Department, which is led by acting Chief Financial Officer T.J. Plante.
I know that budget documents aren’t always “exciting” documents to read, but I urge you to take a glance at the SPS 2010-2011. It has been online since May, following the School Committee’s adoption of it... If you haven’t yet had a chance to read through it, it is accessible at www.sps.springfield.ma.us/AboutOurDistrict.asp.
The budget overcomes a $16 million deficit yet protects classroom funding and class size. In addition, it emphasizes the school district’s mission to improve student achievement; and increases student allotment to schools from $75 to $85 per student. The 2010-2011 budget also includes funding that reinstates middle school sports, enhances reading enrichment programs as well as sustains all costs related to student safety and security.
Again, I offer very proud congratulations to the men and women of the SPS Budget and Finance Department. Your hard work has allowed all of us to shine!
I know that budget documents aren’t always “exciting” documents to read, but I urge you to take a glance at the SPS 2010-2011. It has been online since May, following the School Committee’s adoption of it... If you haven’t yet had a chance to read through it, it is accessible at www.sps.springfield.ma.us/AboutOurDistrict.asp.
The budget overcomes a $16 million deficit yet protects classroom funding and class size. In addition, it emphasizes the school district’s mission to improve student achievement; and increases student allotment to schools from $75 to $85 per student. The 2010-2011 budget also includes funding that reinstates middle school sports, enhances reading enrichment programs as well as sustains all costs related to student safety and security.
Again, I offer very proud congratulations to the men and women of the SPS Budget and Finance Department. Your hard work has allowed all of us to shine!
Friday, October 22, 2010
Week's events give strength and encouragement
The occupation of the superintendency is as busy as ever and I continue to love the work. There were a few events this week that were especially meaningful to me, which I'd like to share.
Early in the week, I attended the Broad Prize announcement in New York City. The superintendents in attendance heard first hand some of the best and most promising practices currently taking place at five high performing school districts. These five districts were finalists for the Broad Prize, and as such they will share $2M in college scholarship dollars for their students. The example of Eli and Edie Broad in sharing their family's wealth to improve opportunities for urban public school students has affirmed my world view as to the possibilities of what we all can do individually and collectively in making a difference.
Later in the week, Mayor Sarno hosted a college awareness event to celebrate Springfield Promise, a college access program. During the event, several speakers, including SPS graduates now enrolled in college, shared their stories of leadership, perseverance, determination and hope with the Commerce High school students and others in attendance. My message to students was simple: dream big, set goals, work hard, stay focused and know that education does pay off.
Yesterday, I had the opportunity to meet Ms. Susan Taylor, editor emeritus of Essence magazine and founder of the National Cares Mentoring Movement. Ms. Taylor was the keynote speaker at the 2010 Through Her Eyes Girls Conference here in Springfield. Her entire message was powerful, yet what resonated most with me was her reference to Ghandi and his need to take time for himself in order to love others well. Her candor, ability to connect with the audience, offering of hope and encouragement of the human spirit was awe inspiring.
All three events helped shape the aspirations and educational opportunities of young people. As we continue the journey of improving our school system, it is important to remember, excellence is not achieved overnight; rather it is built one day at a time!
Early in the week, I attended the Broad Prize announcement in New York City. The superintendents in attendance heard first hand some of the best and most promising practices currently taking place at five high performing school districts. These five districts were finalists for the Broad Prize, and as such they will share $2M in college scholarship dollars for their students. The example of Eli and Edie Broad in sharing their family's wealth to improve opportunities for urban public school students has affirmed my world view as to the possibilities of what we all can do individually and collectively in making a difference.
Later in the week, Mayor Sarno hosted a college awareness event to celebrate Springfield Promise, a college access program. During the event, several speakers, including SPS graduates now enrolled in college, shared their stories of leadership, perseverance, determination and hope with the Commerce High school students and others in attendance. My message to students was simple: dream big, set goals, work hard, stay focused and know that education does pay off.
Yesterday, I had the opportunity to meet Ms. Susan Taylor, editor emeritus of Essence magazine and founder of the National Cares Mentoring Movement. Ms. Taylor was the keynote speaker at the 2010 Through Her Eyes Girls Conference here in Springfield. Her entire message was powerful, yet what resonated most with me was her reference to Ghandi and his need to take time for himself in order to love others well. Her candor, ability to connect with the audience, offering of hope and encouragement of the human spirit was awe inspiring.
All three events helped shape the aspirations and educational opportunities of young people. As we continue the journey of improving our school system, it is important to remember, excellence is not achieved overnight; rather it is built one day at a time!
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