A Message from Dr. Ailshie  I feel like I am just getting started due to the date of my arrival; however, you have completed what appears to be another very successful year. The state writing assessment scores are exemplary, principals are showing excitement about TCAP Quick Scores, and End-of-Course testing has been completed. All available indicators are reasons to celebrate. One of the best feelings we experience is that which comes from knowing a job is well done. It is my hope that you go into the summer knowing that you did everything possible to ensure students learned the knowledge and acquired the skills appropriate to their grade and ability levels. Thank you for a job well done!
As the school system transitions into a summer calendar, the daily focus will change. It is my experience that even though students aren't present in our buildings on a regular basis, the volume of what must be done in a few short weeks requires that the pace of activities become faster. Closing out a budget while beginning a new one, taking care of retirements and finding outstanding new 'educators' to come aboard, making building repairs and doing summer cleaning,all leave little room for relaxation by those involved. Most of the duties are often not recognized, so let me say in advance, thank you for all that you will do over the next several weeks to ensure our facilities are top notch and that we have the very best people available prepared to work with students when August arrives.
Just last week, a Board of Education Retreat was conducted. A primary reason for the retreat was to provide me with an opportunity to give a preliminary overview of my vision for the school system's future. Principals were also invited to attend that part of the day. Needless to say, there is still much for me to learn about our wonderful school system and its various programs, and I will continue to do that as quickly as possible. However, there are certain things that must be present for any organization to reach world-class status. It all begins with the system's culture and its people. I also fully understand that for a vision to be achieved, it must be a shared vision. It doesn't matter that it is well-meaning and research-based if everyone doesn't feel involved and have ownership. Next, there has to be a systems approach. That doesn't mean that everyone needs to be doing the same thing. It means that we provide consistent and expected services to students regardless of their location, home environment, ethnicity, etc. Many school systems have wonderful programs for students, but true success comes from eliminating random acts of excellence by having them become systematic. Over the next few weeks, I will be working with others to refine our vision for the future. Principals will be a part of this work. We will be providing summaries of the work on the school system's web site and any other available outlet throughout the summer. I look forward to sharing it with you and getting your input. It is my hope to be able to share a more detailed plan during the school system's Convocation in July.
The Kingsport City School System is an excellent system. Much work has been accomplished by great 'educators' and leaders. I look forward to working with you, "standing on the shoulders of giants," to take the next step. We will only know if we have achieved our goal if our students are successful and contributing citizens. I look forward to the work ahead.
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