Building and District Updates

After spending the last 10 years as a building-level leader, it feels strange not to be in the middle of the usual year-end whirlwind—testing schedules, field trips, celebrations, and a constant buzz of activity that defines this time of year. While the hustle can easily blur the significance of these final weeks, it is important to remember how important they are. This stretch is not just about wrapping things up; it’s a chance to celebrate growth, reinforce relationships, and finish strong. Students are watching how we close the year—how we model gratitude, reflection, and perseverance. It's also a critical time to affirm a sense of belonging for every learner before summer break begins. Thank you for a great first year!

In this monthly update you will learn more about the following:

1. Need to Know
2. Strategic Planning: New Mission and Vision!
3. A Unique Summer Opportunity
4. What's Happening in Our Buildings?
5. New Cell Phone Law
6. Communication Outlets
7. Superintendent's Message: Slow Down

Last day of school: The last student attendance day will be Tuesday, June 3rd and ALL buildings will be dismissing at noon that afternoon.

We’re excited to share that our new Mission and Vision for the district have been finalized! You’ll find the graphic below that illustrates this important work. As we continue moving forward, we’ll also be finalizing our five-year strategic plan this summer, which will align directly with the Mission and Vision we’ve established.

Earlier this year, I shared an initial draft of this work, but I want to take a moment to revisit and highlight it again. Each of our four buildings contributed their reflections on how our mission should reflect our moral purpose—ultimately answering the core question:
What needs to be in place if we want our students to learn at high levels and grow every single day?

Through thoughtful dialogue and reflection, we identified four foundational pillars that must be in place to support student growth and achievement. These are:

Belief – In ourselves, in one another, and in our students—your kids. When we believe in our shared potential, great things happen.

Culture of Collaboration – Research tells us that collective efficacy has the greatest impact on student learning. We must work together, intentionally and consistently, to ensure all students learn at high levels.

Accountability – We hold ourselves, our colleagues, and our students to high expectations. True accountability is rooted in mutual respect and shared responsibility.

Results-Focused – We are committed to measuring what matters. Data will inform our decisions, drive our actions, and ensure we are continuously improving outcomes for all students.

Fairfield Youth Performing Arts has announced their auditions for their inaugural production of Mary Poppins Jr., which will be performed at the Fairfield Arts & Convention Center July 25th – July 27th. Auditions will be held at the Golden Magnolia Sanctuary on Friday May 9th at 6 PM and on Saturday May 10th at 2 PM. This production is open to performers K – 11 and volunteers of ALL ages. If your student has already signed up as a FYPA participant, please follow the QR Code to RSVP for the Auditions OR if your student has NOT signed up, follow the SAME QR Code to pre-register and RSVP for the Auditions. RSVP/Pre-registration is not REQUIRED to audition, but it helps immensely in planning for a smooth event. If your student is not interested in performing but wants to participate in an artistic, backstage, or technical support role instead, they are welcome in our group as well. If you have any questions, email board@fypa-theatre.org.

Each month we will link the building level newsletter on the district wide communication. As feedback comes in, we will make adjustments as needed. Thanks!

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

This is something I have been told all too often.
It could have been my dad, my wife, a teacher team member, or anyone else I’ve come in contact with over the 44 years I’ve been on this planet. It could be a project connected to school or something we want to update at home… I tend to jump in headfirst and move quickly.

What I have learned moving into the superintendency is that this may not always prove to be the best option.

There is power in pace.
Slowing down doesn’t mean we lose momentum. It means we create space to reflect, listen, and align our work with what matters most. Sometimes, urgency can push us to act before understanding. And when we slow down, even slightly, we often discover better paths, more inclusive ideas, and more sustainable solutions. In leadership, in education, in life the best steps forward aren’t always the fastest ones. They’re the ones taken with clarity, purpose, and people in mind.

So here’s your reminder (and mine):

Slow down. Take a breath. Ask good questions. Trust the process.
The work will still be there — but how we do it makes all the difference!