My heart is full as I write this parting message. As I transition to the Rochester City School District, I do so with immense and deep gratitude for the opportunity to have served the children of the Poughkeepsie City School District for the past six years.
When I reflect on the state of the district upon my arrival and the incredible progress we’ve made together, I am filled with appreciation for our shared efforts. We’ve worked side by side to change the trajectory of our students’ lives, and that impact is the result of our collective commitment. It truly takes an entire community of caring and dedicated adults to ensure that every child has access to the opportunities they deserve.
To our Families: Thank you for entrusting us with your children and for being essential partners in shaping our community’s next generation of leaders and citizens.
To our Instructional Staff: Thank you for the hard work and unwavering care you demonstrate each day in educating and nurturing our students. As educators, our obligation is to inspire and cultivate the intellect and talents of the children before us. Your presence, passion and dedication are a testament to your love for children and your belief in the promise of our future leaders.
To our Non-Instructional Staff: A high-quality education cannot be realized without safe, supportive, and well-equipped learning environments. Your contribution as essential members of our school team has ensured that students arrive safely, receive nutritious meals and learn in clean, welcoming spaces. You’ve also supported your colleagues, enabling them to serve students more effectively. Your impact is invaluable, and for that, you are deeply appreciated. Thank you.
To our Building and Central Office Administrators: Thank you for your tireless efforts in leading, supporting and building the relationships, programs and environments that help our children and staff thrive. Your collaboration and leadership have been critical to the district’s growth and success.
To our Community Partners and Vested Stakeholders: Embracing a school-home-community approach to meeting the evolving needs of our children has been a cornerstone of our success. Your thought partnership, time and resources have led to measurable growth – in and out of the classroom. Thank you for your unwavering support.
To our Board of Education: Thank you for the trust and confidence you placed in me. The Poughkeepsie City School District is grounded in a deep commitment to children, and your governance has consistently reflected that mission.
And to our Students: You’ve inspired me every single day. Your growth, resilience and brilliance are the key factors in educators doing what they do every day to support you. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your journey. I look forward to seeing all that you will contribute to our communities in the years ahead.
Know that everything we’ve accomplished, we’ve done together – our staff, our families, our students and our community. When we work together, our children are the benefactors.
I’ll end as I began – with immense and deep gratitude. Serving the children of Poughkeepsie has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. While our work remains unfinished, I leave confident that the district and this community will remain steadfast in their obligation to children – strengthening what exists and creating even greater pathways for every child to succeed.
Thank you all for the gift of allowing me to be part of a truly special journey.