Summer is finally here! Kids are on summer break, hopefully making great summer memories with friends and family. Did you know that while students are out of school for summer break, they can lose up to three months of progress? The good news is that parents can help children maintain and even improve their knowledge and reading skills. We hope that parents enjoy some of these suggested activities below so that students will see daily reading and learning as a fun part of their summer vacation.
It is very hard to believe that the 2021-2022 school year is coming to an end, graduations are upon us and more than 3,500 seniors will be off to new adventures in college, careers, military service or technical schools. It is always an honor to take part in their last school function as St. Johns County students. Congratulations, class of 2022!
Along with celebrating our seniors, the School Board of St. Johns County recognizes May 2-6, 2022, as Teacher and Substitute Teacher Appreciation Week and the month of May as Teacher Appreciation Month. In the SJCSD, we have 3,266 instructional staff and approximately 994 substitute teachers employed. This year has been a very challenging one for us all but especially our teachers. I am beyond grateful for their commitment, passion and perseverance. Teachers shape the future by challenging their students to learn, think and improve the world around them. Continuous learning by our students is critical to the mission of the district. Our teachers have influence that reaches beyond the classroom and is as boundless as the imagination and determination of every student with whom he or she comes in contact. I want to encourage you to take a moment to thank the instructional staff and substitute teachers for their hard work and dedication. Now more than ever, your tokens of appreciation lift up and encourage our teachers as we end this year with hope and optimism.
Even though the school year is coming to a close, our team continues to recruit into the summer months in preparation for the upcoming 2022-2023 school year. If you or someone you know is interested in working for the SJCSD in any capacity, please be sure to visit the district recruitment website at https://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/recruitment/ for upcoming recruitment fairs as well as a daily updated list of current employment opportunities.
I am humbled and proud to serve a school district and community that recognizes and honors teachers, staff and students who demonstrate good character. As superintendent, I am grateful that I get the opportunity to have a small part in helping your students realize their potential and dreams in a world full of possibilities. Do not forget to take a moment and reflect on the pillar of the month, which is citizenship. I would encourage you to discuss as a family how you can do your share to make your school and community better.
Tim Forson
Superintendent of Schools
