Every Student. Every Day. Knows They Belong.
That was the message as Howell Public Schools welcomed our teachers and staff back today for Opening Day. What a great way to begin a new school year.
Belonging is fundamental to being human. We all need to know that we are seen, valued, and that there is a place for us. For our students, that sense of belonging can shape how they learn, build relationships, ask for help, take on challenges, and experience school.
I had the opportunity to spend the day alongside staff and joined professional learning sessions on the impact of digital media on students and suicide prevention. Both were reminders that educating students is about much more than academics. The relationships we build and the environments we create are an essential part of that work.
As a school board trustee, days like today are important to me. A Board of Education isn’t governing an isolated collection of classrooms. We are entrusted with the stewardship of one of our community’s most important public institutions: its people, facilities, finances, educational opportunities, and long-term direction.
And the impact of our public schools reaches far beyond the classroom, whether or not you currently have a child in the district.
Our schools help develop our future workforce and community leaders. They are a major employer, an important part of what makes our community a desirable place to live, and a gathering place for athletics, arts, activities, traditions, and community connections.
But at the heart of all of it are our students.
Today I saw educators and staff learning, preparing, asking thoughtful questions, and getting ready to welcome students through our doors in just a couple of days. I’m grateful I had the opportunity to learn alongside them.
