The 2022-2023 school year is coming to a close, and that means graduations are right around the corner. More than 3,500 seniors will be off to new adventures in college, careers, military service or technical schools. It is an honor to be a part of the last official function for these St. Johns County students. Congratulations to the Class of 2023!
Along with celebrating our graduates, the St. Johns County School Board recognizes May 1 – 5, 2023, as Teacher and Substitute Teacher Appreciation Week and May as Teacher Appreciation Month. The SJCSD employs 3,400 instructional staff and approximately 1,000 substitute teachers. As we continue to grow as a district with more students arriving almost daily, I am beyond grateful for our teachers’ commitment, passion and perseverance. Teachers shape the future by challenging their students to learn and improve the world around them. Continuous learning by our students is paramount to the mission of the district. Our teachers have an influence that reaches beyond the classroom and is as boundless as the imagination and determination of the students with whom they come in contact. Please take a moment to thank our instructional staff and substitute teachers for their hard work and dedication. Now more than ever, your appreciation encourages our teachers and lifts their spirits.
We end the year celebrating the many accomplishments of our students. Last month we held the annual Students Taking Academic Responsibly (STAR) Awards, recognizing students graduating in the top 3% of their class in academic performance with a teacher mentor who has guided them along the way. We also had The Players Character Cup, an athletic competition for fifth-grade student-athletes of good character as well as the American Youth Character Awards (AYCA) for high school juniors and seniors. We were proud to honor 41 seniors and 71 juniors representing our district high schools and two private schools with awards for exemplifying the Six Pillars of Character. I am humbled and proud to serve a school district and community that recognizes and honors teachers, staff and students who demonstrate good character.
Even though the school year is ending, the summer hiring season is just starting. If you or someone you know is interested in working for the SJCSD in any capacity, please visit the district recruitment website at https://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/recruitment/ for upcoming recruitment fairs and a list of current employment opportunities.
I wish you a healthy, relaxing summer enjoyed with family, friends and loved ones.
Tim Forson
Superintendent of Schools
