As the new superintendent of schools in Aiken County, I'd like to thank everyone who has so warmly welcomed me to the area. Having been reared in North Carolina, I expected to encounter Southern hospitality, but my recent experiences have surpassed my memories of the past.
As exemplified by the 100 Best Communities for Young People honor just bestowed on Aiken County, this is an environment that truly cares about our precious children.
As of Feb. 12, I had visited all of the Aiken County public schools. Members of the Board of Education accompanied me on these tours, and I appreciate not only their time but also the information they gave me on the surrounding communities and school facilities.
During my visits, I encountered dedicated staffers and capable students with supportive families and communities. I felt the pride and vision from the principals and observed some fabulous instruction.
In fact, my presence was barely acknowledged by one class of first graders, who quickly turned back to their teacher and pleaded for her to get back to the lesson at hand.
Were this atmosphere and attitude consistent across all schools? No. Is quality instruction consistent at every school in America? No. Can every classroom in Aiken County provide a quality education? Absolutely.
To accomplish this, the district must focus the work in a few areas and do it diligently.
The resource "pie" in Aiken County and South Carolina is not a very large one. Every expenditure needs to be examined for its usefulness and effectiveness.
Some teaching strategies are more powerful than others and get better results. The challenge is to agree on those powerhouse methods, learn how to effectively utilize them and fully support schools in order to get the job done.
Great leadership and great teaching produce great results. This is much easier said than done and takes hard work, a no-excuses attitude and relentless teaching.
Public education is the door to unending opportunities, the path to lifelong learning and the key to becoming a productive citizen. Aiken County public schools will do our part to provide a quality education for all students. Our entire community is needed to reach our highest levels of achievement.
Many of you are already doing your part, and I sincerely thank you for providing me with a tapestry of potential to work with. Together as parents, civic leaders, faith-based groups, governmental agencies, higher education colleagues, nonprofit groups and partnerships, let us strive to continue to be one of the very best counties for youth in America.
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