Happy Thanksgiving!
Today is a day when we reflect on what we are most thankful for in our lives. Recently, local Superintendents took some time to write about what they are most thankful for in public education. Over the next two days, Education Speaks will bring you their reflections.
What is it about public education that you’re most thankful for?
Dr. Charles S. Dedrick, Capital Region BOCES District Superintendent
I am thankful that public education exists to help provide all children with the foundation they need to be successful in life. But I am even more thankful that I have had the opportunity to be a part of this amazing system. The job of school superintendent is one of the only jobs I can think of where what I do at work each day impacts the lives of such a broad range of children. From the pre-schooler just starting out, all the way up to that senior walking across the stage at graduation, these kids are profoundly affected by the policies and curriculum we as superintendents oversee and implement in a district. And as a BOCES District Superintendent, the number of children positively impacted by our programs increases exponentially. I have to say, I think that’s pretty great and I am lucky to be a part of it.
Elisabeth Smith, Interim Superintendent of Schools, Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School District
Public support for education receives my sincere gratitude. Democracy is secured by well educated citizens, who discuss their thoughts with neighbors and vote to support their values. Anyone can hold an opinion, but the ideas held by an educated individual reflect depth and breadth. When we support public schools, we strengthen our communities. For this, I am thankful.
Clifford Moses, Interim Superintendent of Schools, Gloversville Enlarged School District
Over my 39 years in education, I have been very thankful for the many wonderful educators that provide a home away from home for our students. They have taken on many different roles and are major contributors to the success of our youth. I am also thankful, that while the media and bureaucrats are quick to criticize us, we hold fast to the fact that we make a positive impact on the lives of children.
Dr. Marie Wiles, Superintendent of Schools, Guilderland Central School District
I am thankful for public education because it is the cornerstone of our democracy. At its best, public education has the potential to give each child priceless gifts: a love of learning, hope for the future, opportunity for a full and happy life, the critical skills to make good decisions, and the values to help build and sustain communities that are peaceful, healthy, and vibrant. I am also thankful for all of the people who make it their life’s work to serve in public education for this greater good.
Stephen Tomlinson, Superintendent of Schools, Broadalbin-Perth Central School District
I am thankful to live in a country where we have the freedom to publicly disagree with our elected officials without fear of persecution — specifically regarding actions and policies related to education.
Susan Kay Salvaggio, Superintendent of Schools, Niskayuna Central School District
I am thankful to be part of a community that is so passionate about education, its children, and its schools. It is all about having a vibrant, engaged parent community as a partner to the school, wonderful children who come to school ready to learn, and excellent faculty and staff who do whatever it takes to support our students. The most important resource we have at Niskayuna is people.
Douglas Huntley, Superintendent of Schools, Queensbury Union Free School District
I’m thankful for the fact that a public school education is an equalizer; that every child can advance himself or herself as a result of getting a quality public education.
Christine Crowley, Superintendent of Schools, Duanesburg Central School District
I am thankful for all the parents that are actively involved in their child’s education.