Building and District Updates

Please take a few minutes to read through this year's last update. In this monthly update you will learn more about the following:

1. What's Happening in Our Buildings?
2. Middle School Project Update
3. Summer Food Program
4. Communication Outlets
5. Superintendent's Message: A Year Like No Other
6. 2026-2027 School Calendar

Enjoy your summer!

A couple of our buildings have updates heading into summer. Check out Pence and the High School!

Our Core Design and Planning Team continues to meet every two weeks as the project moves into its next phase. The schematic design phase was completed a few weeks ago, and we are now beginning the design development phase. Throughout the process, we have provided multiple opportunities for middle school staff to ask questions and share feedback, and we will continue to prioritize that collaboration moving forward. Be on the lookout for more communication this summer connected to phase two of the project. Here is what was shared in early May connected to that part of the project.

"Looking ahead, we are actively planning Phase 2 of the project. This phase would allow us to construct new fine arts spaces, two gyms, a new library, CTE areas, a commons/lunch space, and a new kitchen.

To support this work, we are exploring three potential funding sources: a smaller GO bond referendum that would NOT increase the current tax levy, a capital campaign led by a Board-appointed committee with a focus on funding a new competition gym, and grant opportunities. We have partnered with Pathfinders in Fairfield to identify additional funding sources that can help offset costs through the grant writing process.

We have a variety of ways to stay connected with all things FCSD. Please check out these options connected to the district as a whole, and like or follow them!

Follow us on Facebook by clicking HERE

Follow us on X by clicking HERE

Follow us on Instagram by clicking HERE

As this school year comes to a close, I can honestly say it has been unlike any other in my 23 years in education. Every year brings new experiences and challenges, but this one carried a different weight. There were incredible celebrations, heartbreaking tragedy, professional challenges, personal struggles, moments of pride, and moments that tested resilience in ways I could not have anticipated.

Through it all, this year reinforced several reminders that I believe are worth sharing:

1. Invest in the people you work with.
   Schools, organizations, and teams do not succeed because of programs or initiatives alone. They succeed because of people. Relationships matter. Encouragement matters. Taking time to listen, support, challenge, and care for others creates the foundation for everything else we hope to accomplish.
2. Real growth takes place when things are uncomfortable.
   Growth rarely happens when everything is easy. Some of the most meaningful progress comes through adversity, uncertainty, difficult conversations, and moments when we are stretched beyond what feels comfortable. Those moments are not setbacks; they are often the beginning of transformation.
3. It takes time to build trust.
   Trust is not built through words or titles alone. It is earned through consistency, honesty, vulnerability, and showing up day after day....... especially during difficult moments. Strong cultures and strong teams are built slowly, interaction by interaction, over time.
4. Goals are important, but the process matters most.
   Goals give us direction, but the daily habits, discipline, and commitment to improvement are what ultimately create lasting success. The process shapes who we become along the way, and often the lessons learned during the journey matter more than the destination itself.

This year reminded me that leadership, education, and life are ultimately about people, perseverance, and purpose. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue learning and serving alongside so many incredible students, staff members, families, and community members each and every day. Have a great summer!