I've never been much of a traveler. Packing, unpacking, and long drives aren't my idea of fun. I've grown to appreciate the peace of staying put, especially in a world that rarely slows down. But sometimes, life calls us to take a journey anyway. And when it does, we pack with care, bringing what's essential and leaving room for growth along the way.
As we begin this school year, each of us brings our own outlook filled with experience, talent, perseverance, and most importantly, a deep commitment to the students and communities we serve. But this year, I'm asking us to bring something more: the determination to Make the CASE for our public schools, this district, and our continued success.
In today's climate, public education faces growing scrutiny. Even some of our state lawmakers seem to want to dismantle the progress we have made in Mississippi. Other states are chasing our nationally recognized progress referred to the Mississippi Miracle. We know it's not a miracle it's hard work and determination from our public educators. We know the truth, public education creates hope, opportunity, and the Lauderdale County School District remains the best choice for our local students and families.
We must continue to show that through action. Making the CASE means standing for:
Community- When our schools thrive, so do our communities and county.
Accountability- We are responsible to one another, to our students, and to every family who places trust in us and to all Lauderdale County taxpayers.
Service- We shape lives. And it only works when led by purpose and a servant's heart. The service we provide impacts generations and is uniquely powerful.
Experience - Every student deserves our best. We are their advocates and champions. All means all.
Consider this: nearly 90 percent of Mississippi's children attend public schools. About 70 percent of those will go straight into the workforce. And that is more than okay. For the nearly 6,000 students we serve, success looks different for each one. Our job is to make sure every graduate leaves LCSD ready, whether Enrolled, Enlisted, Employed, or an Entrepreneur.
LCSD had a great year to celebrate. We've enjoyed championship seasons and earned state and national honors in academics, the arts, and athletics. We've recently had a principal, teacher and assistant principal, and athletic director of the year. Many other of our educators served on prestigious committees and councils. One of our coaches received National Coach of the Year honors and a student athlete received a Player of the Year honor. Our NJROTC students have excelled nationally while other students have competed successfully in a plethora of competitions. Another of our schools achieved National Blue Ribbon status!