Someone asked me today, "what good is happening?" It was nice to be asked this, and it caused me to recall many good things on a professional and personal level. So I thought I would share a few with you.
The District launched the IGNITE Online and Personalized Learning program about a year ago. We are currently serving 74 students who are either full-time online learners or are students with hybrid schedules. This program has allowed students to maximize their time, explore career interests and learn in a tailored way to meet their individual needs. It has been an excellent investment of time, talent, and funds. I am looking forward to seeing it continue and expand.
Spring break came at a good time when most of us felt the need to unwind and do something different. Our students needed something different as well. The District held interest camps over break to provide students at the K8 building opportunities to try something new. I was thrilled with Julie Murren's theatre camp. The students worked hard all week and even gave a performance. It was a great healthy outlet for the students and a lot of fun for them.
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| Interest Camp |
Saturday, March 26th, the Shenandoah Iowa Education Foundation celebrated 150 years of Excellence in Education. They recognized several people on staff that have served 25 or more years in public education that are on our staff. I appreciated being honored for the number of years I have been in education but was also a little overwhelmed to see the number of recognized people. There is a nationwide shortage of teachers, but our District is blessed with the wealth of knowledge and experience of many veteran staff members.
I was also immensely pleased to learn Kyle Horn (1982 graduate) was named the Alumnus of the Year at the banquet and to be able to listen to Scott Ginger, from the class of 1976, share his experience as an educator in Nevada. They were both compelling presentations. You can read more about the event and see pictures on the KMA here KMA Article.
Connie McGinnis was recognized at the Foundation event but was also recently honored at the IHSADA convention as the Administrative Assistant of the year. This award was a tremendous honor, and she is certainly most deserving. Connie has given a lot to the Shenandoah Community School District. Her skill, experience, and institutional knowledge will be greatly missed next year because she is retiring.
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| Connie McGinnis |
Last night, our Boy's track team beat a school record for one of their events. It was a significant achievement, and I am proud of their time, effort, and talent.
While hiring and recruiting have been more challenging this year than most, I am glad that we have filled many of our positions. We are not entirely done yet, but a fantastic group of new professionals is joining our team, and I can't want to introduce them to you. I am thankful they agree that Shenandoah is the place to be.
It was beneficial for me to reflect on the good today. I hope you will take a few minutes to reflect and consider the same.
