As we turn the calendar to May, a month filled with reflections on gratitude and appreciation, I find myself deeply moved to express my immense gratitude for the incredible staff members who make Oakwood Schools not just a place of learning, but a haven of warmth, support, and growth for our students and families.

This week, from May 6th to May 10th, marks Staff Appreciation Week, a time when we come together to honor the dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment of every member of our staff.  Regardless of role, title, or years of experience, each individual plays a vital role in creating a nurturing environment where every student can seen, valued, heard, and challenged!

Reflection and connection are two powerful pillars that underpin the ethos of our school community. As we celebrate Staff Appreciation Week, I am reminded of the profound impact that these values have on our ability to build positive relationships with our students and their families. It is through reflection that we continually strive to improve, to learn from our experiences, and to better understand the needs of those we serve. And it is through connection that we forge bonds of trust, empathy, and support that uplift and inspire every member of our community.

Our staff members embody these values each and every day, whether they are engaging students in the classroom, providing a warm greeting at the front desk, preparing nutritious meals in the cafeteria, or ensuring that our facilities are safe and welcoming. They go above and beyond to foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity, to offer a listening ear or a comforting smile, and to create moments of joy and inspiration that stay with our students for a lifetime.

As Superintendent, I am profoundly grateful for the dedication and passion that our staff bring to their roles each day. Your tireless efforts do not go unnoticed, and they are deeply appreciated by myself, our Board of Education, and the entire Oakwood Schools community.

At the beginning of this school year, I shared with our staff a hope that each of us would strive to "Be a Champion" for our students—a champion of their dreams, their aspirations, and their potential. As I reflect on the incredible work that our staff has done over the past months, I am filled with hope and pride. Each one of them has embraced the call to champion our students with open hearts and unwavering dedication, and the impact of their efforts resonates far beyond the walls of our schools.

So, as we celebrate Staff Appreciation Week, let us take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we have embarked on together, to appreciate the connections we have forged, and to express our gratitude for the extraordinary individuals who make Oakwood Schools a place of excellence, compassion, and community.

#OneOakwood