|
To our Tiger Community,
As we wrap up another incredible year, I want to reflect on the spirit of gratitude, and express that sentiment to our community. This has been a monumental year for our District, filled with countless reasons for excitement, reflection, and resolve. I often find myself wanting to reiterate the numerous accolades that our students and teams garner, and we know there are many. The reality is, we know our District is one of the best in the state. It is a point of pride that finds its way into every facet of our community. We also know that being the best doesn’t just happen on its own. It is a collaboration between teachers, parents, families, administrators, students, and every other stakeholder that engages in the work of our community. As our Superintendent stated when she unveiled our 2023-24 school year theme, “CF Together,” back in August, “the power of ‘CF Together’ lies in our collective efforts.”
We live in very interesting times in our country, and we continue to witness an educational landscape that is shifting and evolving at a rapid pace. Many of the challenges that we, and other communities face, are unprecedented in their scope, and demand thoughtfulness in how we navigate them. The continued success of our District depends primarily upon the efforts we make now together, to solve future problems, and ingratiate ourselves with one another. The elusive piece that makes us so special is the dynamic community that we have. I refer to this as our own iron triangle, where we have our schools, our community, and our families. The voices and contributions of each of these three pillars is critical in supporting our bigger picture.
As this year comes to a close, two of our Board members take their leave with eight years of Board service, and many more in community and District work. Sharon Broz and Kathryn Garvey have shaped the landscape for the future of this District, with a level of commitment that is beyond compare. Their efforts are at the center of why we all do what we do, our students. I have always held the belief that when you leave someplace, leave it better than you found it. Sharon and Kathryn have done just that, leaving a legacy of excellence for the future. I have a deep sense of gratitude for the work that they have done, not just for my own family within this District, but everyone else’s. The work of the School Board is important, not only in its purpose, but in its scope. I am reminded of a quote by Abraham Lincoln where he stated, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” Sharon and Kathryn will be sorely missed on our Board, and their countless contributions will continue to be seen and felt on into the future.
As we embrace 2024, with all the intention and hope for the new year, know that the Board of Education has a deep sense of gratitude for all of you, and everything that you bring to our community. The work isn’t always easy, but we wouldn’t have the success that we have without your investment and support. As we welcome two new members to our Board of Education in January, our commitment to the idea of a Chagrin education is as strong as ever. I think about the teachers, the coaches, the administrators, the bus drivers, the diesel mechanics, the counselors, the facilities professionals, the food services staff, and so many more that keep us moving, learning, growing, and thriving. At its best, the work of a School District is work that is centered on educating the whole student. Teaching, feeding, driving, counseling, and mentoring, are just a few of the pieces this team does with incredible investment and grace. When considering the spaces where our students learn, the fields where they compete, or the places where they play, our staff and educators are unparalleled in their commitment to our broader community. We indeed have much to be grateful for. Our warmest regards to the communities we serve as we move toward the winter holiday season. We wish you warmth and peace in the new year!
With gratitude,
Dr. Robert E. Schleper, Jr.
| 
