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Springs Notebook: School Leaders’ Resolutions

Thu, 01/11/2024 - 08:53
To talk about New Year’s resolutions, members of the Springs School Journalism Club teamed up with administrators, including, from left, Debra Winter with Britney Pesantez, Erik Kelt with Adrie Quinn, and Jessica Rodgers with Abigail Amay.
Danielle Hamilton

Many people have New Year’s resolutions. Maybe it’s to eat more healthfully, go to the gym more, or save up some money for a vacation. But have you ever wondered what school leaders set as goals for their success or what they want to accomplish for themselves, the school, the students and faculty? After the Journalism Club’s exclusive interviews with the Springs School’s administrators, these questions were answered.

The principal, Erik Kelt, said that he would like to “enhance school culture, foster a positive and safe environment that is outlined in our school vision, and foster a sense of community between the staff and students. I have observed and am continuously learning the makeup of Springs School, and into the new year I am looking to implement new strategies to increase the grades of all students.”

The assistant principal, Jessica Rodgers, has a reason to start two resolutions because her birthday is on New Year’s Day. This year, she set a goal to have more fun and joy during her free time. “To have fun I would like to read about recipes. To have joy I would like to spend more time with my family because family is important to me.” She also wanted to go on more walks with her two dogs, who bring her happiness every day. When asked about her most important goal for the school year, Ms. Rodgers said, “I want to smile at every child I see since I think it’s the most important part of my job.”

The superintendent, Debra Winter, wants to complete a little unfinished business before she retires later this year. She would like to add some final touches on the school’s new gym. Additionally, she would like to make sure the school’s records from the past are kept safe. Those records have been stored in the basement and were damaged because the dehumidification system broke down while the school was under construction. Ms. Winter wrote a grant, which was approved, for a new dehumidification system as well as receiving help with archiving the records. She also wants to help the new superintendent have a positive start and a smooth transition.

All of these resolutions and visions will greatly benefit the school this new year, as the capital project (the expansion and renovation of Springs School that was started in 2019) comes to a close in the coming months, a new superintendent starts part time next month, and graduation comes just a few months from now.

By Adrie Quinn, 8th grade,

Abigal Amay, 6th grade,

and Britney Pesantez, 6th grade

 


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