Dear Education Community,
I want to extend a heartfelt “welcome back” to each of you. There’s something truly special about the energy and excitement that fills our schools at the start of the year—a feeling of hope, possibility, and a fresh start.
To our incredible educators, thank you. Year after year, you return with dedication: ready to inspire, challenge, and uplift our students. Your commitment to making a difference, especially in times as complex as these, is nothing short of remarkable. You are the heartbeat of our schools, and your work is the foundation upon which our students build their futures.
I also want to take a moment to congratulate and thank our families and communities. Your support for our schools is invaluable. You are our partners in this journey, and your trust in us to educate and nurture your children means the world. Together with schools, families and community partners, we are creating a strong, supportive environment where our students can thrive. Your continued involvement and belief in the power of education help make our schools the vibrant, dynamic places they are. We couldn't do this work without you.
As we come together this year, we are keenly aware of the challenges before us. We live in a time where the world around us is rapidly changing, with a sociopolitical landscape that is more complex than ever. In the face of these challenges, our mission remains clear: to provide every student with the education and support they need to succeed, no matter the obstacles.
This year, we are declaring September “Attendance Awareness Month”—a crucial step in moving the academic needle forward. We know that consistent attendance is key to student success. When students attend school regularly, they are more likely to learn, grow, and connect. This initiative is a call to action for all of us—educators, parents, and community members—to prioritize attendance and to ensure that each and every student has the opportunity to thrive.
By working together, we can create an environment where every child feels supported and empowered to reach their highest potential. With that in mind, we have compiled a set of resources to support educators in schools and classrooms as we set the conditions for healthy dialogues, rigorous learning, and meaningful connections.
As we step into this new school year, let’s carry with us the knowledge that the work we do matters, and that while there are challenges ahead, we are stronger together. We are shaping the future, one student at a time, and there is no greater responsibility or privilege.
Thank you for your dedication, your passion, and your unwavering belief in the power of education. Here’s to a year filled with growth, achievement, and the joy of learning.
In love and justice,
Dr. Charlene Williams
Previously Shared:
NEW Grab & Go Resources:
- National Equity Project (for use with adults and students):
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