As I reflected on the Thanksgiving holiday, I am struck by the many blessings we each have and often do not take the time to acknowledge. I am reminded of the many acts of kindness and generosity that so many in our community are a part of regularly and quietly. We are so thankful for the staff and community of the South Kitsap School District.
Without the many volunteers in our schools each and every day, our district would not be as strong as it is and the many hours of volunteer time enrich the lives and fabric of our great district and community.
In the district, we have a clear and focused initiative titled, “Whole Child, Whole Community.” At this time of the year, I want to express our gratefulness as a district for the “Whole Community.” Currently, we have 4,223 community volunteers in our district contributing thousands of hours of service and support to our students on a daily basis. Dena Guglielmo, volunteer coordinator at John Sedgwick Junior High School, summed it up nicely saying, “Volunteers are the vital third side of our triangle; without them, we would topple over. Students, staff and volunteers make our district a great place to be.”
Our “Whole Child, Whole Community” initiative relies on this relationship. The many ways in which the community volunteers include classroom help, library, gardens, drama, dances, art project help, athletics, health screenings, field day, field trips, camp, graduation, WATCH D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) program, popcorn, picture day and a variety of PTSO events.
I consider myself so fortunate to be here and be able to serve and support this great community and want to extend my heartfelt wishes to each of you for a happy holiday season.
Even with all the hardships of the past year, the incredible resilience of this community are both remarkable and inspiring. Gratitude gives sense to our past, ushers peace for today and conjures a vision for the days to come.
We are so thankful for all the support.
Michelle Reid is superintendent of the South Kitsap School District. She can be reached by email at reid@skitsap.wednet.edu or by phone at 360-874-7001.
