Dear Aberdeen School District Faculty and Staff,
As we enter the Thanksgiving season, I would like to thank all the faculty and staff for making a difference in the Aberdeen School District (ASD). Your relentless commitment and dedication to the field of education is remarkable! Every employee in ASD plays a vital role in providing the best learning experience for our students. Not only do we work together as a team to improve student achievement, but we also provide a safe, nurturing place for them to grow and prosper. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of the 1,000 students we serve.
In addition, I would like to take a moment to identify several things for which I am thankful for this school year. ASD is more than a school district! When I visit classrooms, I see teachers and support staff working with students on academic content, along with social skills, that students will need to succeed in the job market. I see staff members collaborating with various organizations and community groups to provide support and encouragement for our teachers and staff. I see a compassionate faculty and staff who take care of many needs, such as a student who needs a jacket; a child who needs money for a field trip; or a young person who needs assistance to participate in extracurricular activities. I see countless needs such as these quietly cared for by our ASD team and partnership with the city of Aberdeen.
I am thankful for creative staff members who look for ways to motivate our students to excel academically. Our club sponsors and coaches spend tireless hours teaching our young student-athletes not only a sport, but also what it means to be a good team member and represent our community in a positive way. Teachers instill in our students the love of the arts. Students and staff generously hold food drives for our broader community. High school students mentor elementary students. Music directors and young musicians fill the air with songs. Most importantly, our teachers teach with love and care every day to ensure that our students are well-prepared for their futures.
I am thankful that there are too many examples to list! Our school system is full of wonderful, committed people and innovative programs that provide students with many opportunities for a future beyond our hallways. A final note of sincere gratitude goes to our supportive community who generously contributes its time, talents, and money to provide the best education for all ASD students.
Commitment, care, collaboration, creativity, and community - I am thankful during this season for these things. I hope you have a happy and safe Thanksgiving holiday!
Sincerely,
Andrea Pastchal-Smith, Ph.D. Superintendent
Aberdeen School District