As I look back on this past school year, the fall of 2021 seems like a distant memory. It’s hard to believe that we started the school year with numerous communicable disease health and safety restrictions and measures in place. Thankfully, since Spring Break, we have been able to resume more normal school operations, and it’s been absolutely wonderful to see students competing in athletics, and shining on stage in school performances again.
In my summer message a few years ago, I shared what I know to be fundamentally true – that we are better together than apart. As health restrictions have been relaxed this spring, I believe that even more so. The simple pleasures of connecting and engaging with others have taken on even greater meaning and importance now than ever before.
In the fall, we launched our Vision for 2030 – to be an innovative, inclusive community where all learners belong and everyone soars. This new vision encompasses the voices of more than 3,000 stakeholders and as a result, we know it resonates deeply with Delta students, staff and families. During the past school year, we have seen staff and students display our values of compassion, responsibility, integrity, creativity, diversity and resilience in many deeply meaningful ways, and I am so proud of them.
As always, I’d like to thank our staff for their professionalism and dedication to our students. Whether in a classroom or behind the scenes, their commitment to achieving our mission of inspiring and nurturing thriving future-ready learners is exceptional. Although life has started to return to normal, I know this past year has not been easy and many staff are feeling exhausted. I hope you all manage to enjoy a very well-deserved break over the summer.
As always at this time of year, we bid farewell to a number of staff who are retiring or moving on to other adventures. Thank you for your hard work and commitment in educating and supporting students.
To our Trustees, thank you for your leadership and ongoing dedication to our students, staff, and district.
To this year’s graduates, I am thrilled that you were able to enjoy more complete graduation celebrations this year. My wish is that you remain happy, healthy and follow your passion —whether that involves attending post-secondary, starting a new job or travelling; I hope you will always remain curious learners. Congratulations Graduates of 2022!
To parents and caregivers, thank you. You are your child’s first and forever teacher. I thank you for supporting your child’s school and educators in whatever way you are able to best support your child’s future.
To all of our Delta students, staff and families, I wish you an enjoyable and relaxing summer.
See you in September!
Sincerely,
Doug Sheppard
Superintendent, Delta School District
