From the Superintendent: Time for Spring Break

 

Dear Clarkston Community Schools Families,

Over the past couple of weeks, I have had the pleasure of reading to our students in their classrooms. This tradition in March was something I enjoyed but took for granted. This time, I soaked up every bit of their laughter, infectious smiles, and excitement to learn. My days have been brighter because of them. 

Last week, our CJHS students were able to participate in a Career Day that was two years in the making. It was canceled when all schools were closed in March of 2020. Last Friday, the building was buzzing with students and professionals. SMS had their career day this week as well. Our kids were connecting with adults and asking important questions. They were engaged and learning about the many different routes they could take for a successful future.

There has been so much talk about getting back to “normal,” the way things were before March 2020. While I understand the sentiment, I’m not looking back. I’m focusing on the future. While times were simpler then, we all evolved over these past two years, and I don’t want to lose what we have gained.

There are several aspects of this pandemic that I will gladly pack away and hopefully never revisit. But we do have several ”COVID-keepers.” 

With all of the challenges we have overcome, we have all reached new levels of resilience and innovation. We need to harness those traits. Plato said, “Necessity is the mother of invention.” It’s time to prove that there are exceptions to that theory. Let’s continue to try new things and not be afraid of potential failure. We all learned that we successfully land on our feet more often than not.

We have also had a crash course in personal and professional relationships. We have learned the importance of community and lifting each other up. We have lived through screens and truly understood the importance of face-to-face interactions. While I appreciate virtual meetings from time to time, nothing beats the energy in a collaborative room.

Our shared experiences have strengthened us as individuals and as a whole. While we have experienced some tribulation along the way, we just need to keep our collective goal at the forefront - continuing to do all we can to offer our students the education and experience they all deserve. 

Over the break, be sure to reflect on what you have learned and what you will keep. I strongly encourage you to put down the work when you can and connect with others. Whether traveling or staying local, have a safe and wonderful vacation. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Shawn Ryan

 

About Clarkston Community Schools: Clarkston is a highly regarded school district with an enrollment of nearly 7,100 students. We have seven elementary schools (K-5), one middle school serving grades 6-7, one junior high for grades 8-9, and Clarkston High School, which serves students in grades 10-12. We also have a virtual academy, an Early Childhood Center serving children ages 3-5, and an alternative high school/community education facility. Clarkston Community Schools students are well-prepared for a future that excites them, and believe that they can achieve their dreams. The mission of Clarkston Community Schools is to create a learning environment where students, staff, and families are challenged, healthy, engaged, safe, and supported.

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Media Contact: Kelly Allen, Director of Marketing and Community Relations (248) 623-5460.