Articles by the Superintendent

I believe the old saying that money can’t buy happiness is fundamentally true. I also believe that a lack of financial knowledge makes life unnecessarily stressful for many in our consumer-oriented world. Young adults are frequently bombarded with credit card offers and high-interest financing deals that can derail their financial well-being. The ability to navigate the complexities of personal finance has never been more important.

A core mission of public schools is to ensure that graduates are ready for college or a career upon leaving high school. Research and employers consistently tell us that employability or “soft” skills are crucial for graduates entering the workforce. 

Smartphones and social media are significant components of our daily lives. While technology offers significant benefits, including instant communication, access to information, and educational resources, it also presents challenges that parents and educators must navigate carefully. In schools, we see firsthand the advantages and concerns that these tools present.

As we welcome 2026 and prepare to celebrate our country’s 250th birthday later this year, it is fitting to remember that public education is one of our nation’s most enduring promises. Long before test scores, funding formulas, or political debates, our Founding Fathers understood that educating all citizens is crucial to protecting and sustaining a representative democracy. Thomas Jefferson wrote that an educated public is “a vital requisite for our survival as a free people.” John Adams and Benjamin Franklin echoed that sentiment, noting that the liberty of a republic could not be preserved without general knowledge among the people.

As we enter this season of giving, one of the most meaningful gifts we can offer each other costs nothing. Human beings are wired for relationships and connecting with other people. Even the most introverted among us need meaningful interactions in our lives. In a season built around togetherness, let’s reflect on how connection shapes not only our own lives, but also our schools and community.