What an exciting start to the new academic school year!
The first week back with staff was tightly scheduled, but they were focused on the right work. The staff was able to listen to motivational speakers, spend time reviewing school safety procedures and crisis prevention strategies, and dive deep into planning for their students to start school. It was a powerful way to start the year.
The staff heard from Dr. Plugge, the former GHAEA Chief Administrator, and Mr. Christensen, our High School Principal. They shared words of wisdom and powerful messages that rang true with the staff about service, mentorship, making connections, and shifting our mindset, which I hope we recall in the coming months. I also appreciated the veteran staff who participated in the panel discussion. The teachers were excellent representatives of our learning community. Their voice carried much weight with the team, and their message was valued.
There were several sessions that addressed school safety and the different aspects of prevention, protection, mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. It isn't possible to share a safety checklist that will work in all situations, but staff reviewed critical information and walked away with real tools. Mr. Weinrich and Mrs. Spiegel's CPI presentation, if taken to heart, should challenge all of us to consider how we interact with students, staff, parents, and community members in difficult moments. How we respond to people matters. It makes a difference and is a prevention strategy. SMC also provided Stop the Bleed Training. It is information that truly saves lives and can be used anywhere.
I absolutely loved seeing our kids back in full session. I still smile when I think about Open House. The school was packed with families, and the food was fantastic. It was a great night for our students and their families. However, nothing is quite like the energy and excitement of the first day of school. I walked through each of the schools to talk with the students and staff. It was great to connect with them and listen to their different perspectives. The tone and feel of the buildings are very positive and energetic.
It was good to see staff taking time to get to know their students and explicitly teaching routines. I attended some of the student grade level meetings at the High School. I appreciated the clear expectations that were communicated. This time was important for the students and staff. Students need to know we care about them and also understand what we expect from them. The conversations were quite positive, and the message was clear.
I met some pretty amazing students in the middle school gym. Friends, these kiddos were excited. I am not sure their excitement was all about learning math, but they were anxious to talk to their friends, meet their teachers, and find out what was on the lunch menu. They were eager to connect with others and be a part of the school learning community. I enjoyed every minute of my visit.
It has been a great start to the school year. I am thankful that you have chosen Shenandoah CSD as the place to be and have trusted us with your children and teenagers! You can watch a quick video of some of the highlights.
