participated in a discussion from afar on leadership. the talk ranged from what it is, what it can be, how to achieve it, and what it does. well, that's the gist of it. anyways, the boss-boss-boss sent out an end-of-year message to everyone.
As we celebrate the final week of the 2007-2008 school year, on behalf of the Boston School Committee, I want to thank the entire BPS staff for your hard work and dedication to serving and educating the children of this city. Since too often you do not hear frequently enough that you do matter, I do want to pause and let you know that your efforts to make a difference are valued and appreciated in this community.that is what leadership is, in my opinion. as a matter of fact, she sent handwritten to each of the fourteen students that helped plan the technology conference in May. She even put smiley faces on them. word.
Every single day, the future of Boston walks through our doors, and every single moment, you listen to their needs. You inspire them to create, achieve, value diversity, be respectful, perform well, and pass tests. You have responded to demands both internally and externally and worked with parents to jointly solve the individual problems that are unique to each student. When materials were in short supply, when an extra set of hands were needed to move tables, set up and take down for the music and arts performances, when a student was homeless or depressed, might have missed the field trip, school pictures or the book fair, you cheerfully stepped forward to fill in the gaps. There are times when you have led, followed, helped build consensus, or been the voice of advocacy for our students. Not everything you have done is measured on MCAS, and yet, you have deeply understood that not some, but all of our children must reach MCAS proficiency and graduate from high school. Some of you have made sure students arrived safe and on time, were well-fed, and received extra help after school. Others have been in the classroom, alongside teachers, providing that extra boost of encouragement and motivation. And still others, working centrally or as partners, have supported those who directly teach our students.
To all, I say many, many thanks for making the difference between mediocrity and excellence, and sometimes, between failure and success. Your work is the most important work in America, and you do matter!!
Truly grateful,
Carol R. Johnson, Superintendent