It wasn’t that long ago that as Holloway’s principal, I found myself standing in front of hundreds of parents who were attending their first elementary school open house. Because it was my first in a new role (my entire career prior to that time was spent in the high school setting) you can imagine that I was probably matching them nerve for nerve. As a forever Springfield parent myself, I knew a little about what was expected, but still I wanted to make the evening memorable. After all, we generally remember most of our “firsts,” right? First dates, first kiss, first job, etc. So why, several years later and after returning to the high school environment, am I compelled to write a message to kindergarten parents? Well, let me tell you.
In truth, my motivation comes from a post that I saw from a father asking others in the area to weigh in about the district. His child is currently attending a community school and he was asking for an honest assessment of the district from parents. Because I, too, am a parent, I believe that I am particularly well prepared to answer any question that one could pose about Springfield Local Schools. You see, I don’t believe that there is an administrator, teacher or staff member who would be anything but honest about the curriculum that is offered, the opportunities, programs, activities and many services that await every child. My perspective is not unique. I have the privilege of working with fellow grads, and many fellow parents who have chosen Springfield to educate our children. Before I go on too much farther, allow me to share that most of the responses to the “inquiring dad” were very positive. Sure, there were a few who raised concerns, but as a whole, most agree, Springfield does a pretty darn good job preK-12.
For those without a direct connection through their own experiences or children’s day-to-day reports, I feel motivated to share a few insights. Of course, I possess a bias–I am proud of the work we do to educate each student living in our community. Our doors are open to all and we welcome all kids. I also possess inside information– my vantage point comes from leading and serving on preK-12 teams that explore strategies, new methods and accountability measures for desired student outcomes. Sure, we review data. Sure, we talk with parents and students all the time, because that is how we keep getting better.
So, why is this message for kindergarten parents? Perhaps all of us need a little reminder, but especially to those parenting the youngest students need to consider that there will be many times over the next 13 years that you will receive information from other schools touting their academic/athletic programs. I always tell those who are exploring options to please do so. All we ask is that parents also offer Springfield schools the opportunity to show off. If and when that occurs, I believe that most will select Springfield.
I would like to end this message by sharing the words written by last year’s Valedictorian Ryan Fong. As he prepared for graduation last year, we invited him to offer his thoughts about the district. Here is what he wrote, “After spending the last 18 years living in Springfield, it’s hard to believe that my time here is almost over. From the very first day of kindergarten at Crissey up until this moment, I am so grateful to have been a part of this community and for all of the people within it. My peers and teachers have always believed in me and taught me to believe in myself. I would like to give special thanks to Madame Post, Mr. Perlaky, Mrs. Stanfill, Mrs. Reitz and Mr. Howe. While I may not remember the subject material forever, the things I have learned about life from all the thoughtful class discussions and shared stories will stay with me permanently. During my time at Springfield, I have played on the football team as a freshman and sophomore, competed with the Science Olympiad team as a junior and senior, and been a member of NHS. My involvement in these things has pushed me outside of my comfort zone and allowed me to form some wonderful memories and friendships. After graduation, I plan on majoring in computer science at the Ohio State University, the University of Cincinnati or The University of Toledo. To my fellow seniors: our high school experience has been anything but predictable. We’ve had to be flexible to meet the challenges these past few years have presented, and we overcame them with the help of our friends, families and teachers. As we face even greater obstacles in the coming years, let us never forget how valuable the support of others can be. Leaning on one another does not make us weak, for there is strength in knowing that we are better together. I hope that as we step forward into the next chapter of our lives, we not only find support wherever we end up, but also continue to support one another. Thank you all for all of your kindness, and I wish you all the best!” We are grateful that he and his parents trusted Springfield. Although Ryan is an exceptional individual, his experiences were not unique. We hear these same reflections from most seniors as their thoughts pingpong between senioritis and angst. Between anticipation for what will come and the anxiousness that accompanies the unknown.
I suspect that these are the same emotions that kindergarten parents feel as the first days of school approach. My message is the same for both–“We’re here for you.”
