Partnership Educators,
Alistair Cook, a journalist, and broadcaster, said it well, "A professional is someone who can do his best work when he doesn't feel like it." Thanks to the many professionals that stepped up today and just took care of our students and families and made sure that they made it home safe. I wish I could have recorded the number of personal calls all our office staffs made to our parents. They made sure someone was going to be available to pick up their child or be there if the bus took them home. This cheerful and diligent group worked hard to make sure safety was first and provided the needed support during the school closure. I offer a heartfelt thank you.
Let's also not forget the kitchen staff who had a major change of plans to their day but pulled off supporting students with food if it was needed. Thank you for your willingness to do what was needed. It says a lot about the character of our custodial staff who are still working to clean our school today so Monday we are ready to go. These are true professionals.
Being in a classroom with 24 to 35 students who know they are going home can also be a challenge. But without a hitch, our teachers are the best. Thanks for supporting a smooth transition for our kids to get home with their families and taking the time to reassure them that they were safe.
A big shout out to the leaders across the district. They handled calls, traffic, parents and so much more to help organize and support the transition within this unique event.
I know that I am not mentioning so many other staff members who were also a huge part of making this event today as successful as it could be. Don't think I didn't notice or appreciate your willingness to step up and help where you could.
I had a story prepared for today but it can wait because the big story today is all of you and the sight of a group of individuals working to support kids and families. Honestly, I know that many of you are also parents within ours or other systems that closed today, but you did your job and supported the students you were in charge of. Being in public service can often feel like a thankless job but today I am saying thank you for being a true professional public servant.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Rob
Superintendent
Redding Elementary School District
New Millennium Partnership
5885 East Bonnyview Rd.
Redding, Ca 96001