Here We Go Again!
School districts across our great city are gearing up for the new adventures of the 2021-2022 school year.
I am excited to lead Pleasant Grove Middle School for this upcoming school year. I have been in education for a total of fifteen years, and this will be my ninth year in administration. Each new year brings new challenges and opportunities, and this year is no exception. However, I know our team shares the mission of ensuring high levels of learning for all students. This time of year is also exciting for our students. The first day of middle school is just the beginning of so many firsts for them-first time having a locker, first pep-rally, first football game, first volleyball game and even first dance. Students switch classes throughout the day and can even choose elective classes that fit their personality. I am looking forward to seeing students as they begin this next set of “firsts.” The best part of my job is creating an environment where our students go from first steps to soaring.
The start of school can bring many emotions for all parties involved. I must admit that in the first week of school, not only are the students, parents, and teachers excited and nervous, but I too get excited and nervous the night before the first day of school. Even though I’ve experienced many “first days of school,” I can’t help but anticipate what the first day will look like. Many students enter the building the first day of school one person and throughout the year they grow and transform into a completely different one. I have the best job in the world because I get to see the growth and progress these students make every day. I also have the responsibility and accountability of helping mold these students into productive, kind citizens. Over the last couple of years, I have been absolutely encouraged by the strength and resilience our students have shown by coming to school and learning while enduring a pandemic. These students have made history and continue to show perseverance with a focus on learning and getting better during times of adversity. I am really looking forward to this year.
As we begin this new school year, it is a time for everyone to reset their priorities and focus. With new pencils and papers should come new goals and practices. Our staff starts every meeting with our school mission. This sets the tone for what we want to accomplish. I want to challenge each of you, no matter what district you attend, as we start this new school year, establish your own personal mission, and set new goals for yourself for this upcoming year. We are on the eve of a new beginning, and I could not be more excited to take on this new year of opportunities with each of you. Hawk Nation!
