Today is a special day in the history of America as our new president is inaugurated. With our nation at war and in the midst of a terrible economic crisis, many people in our country are facing despair every day. But as I listen to the news, it is obvious that there is a renewed spirit of hope in our country. Regardless of which candidate people supported in the November election, there seems to be a spirit of cooperation and determination as Washington D.C. fills up with record crowds who have made the trip to view the inauguration.

President Obama has said that our nation will endure but it will take time and sacrifice on all our parts. Despite the odds our country is facing, it feels like there is also a determination that if we all work together, we can make things better for future generations. My hope is that the spirit of cooperation and patience will carry over into our own city and will help us recommit our determination to make Fayette County the best it can be.

As educators, we are the people entrusted with delivering on the promise of hope. We have a moral imperative to ensure that every single student receives a world-class education, regardless of race, socio-economics, disability or native language. Public schools are uniquely suited to break the cycle of poverty and correct social inequalities, and I take that responsibility personally. We hear a lot of talk about “all kids” in political speeches, government mandates and newspaper editorials, but as front-line school leaders we cannot take the word “all” lightly. It requires a commitment to care for the individual needs of every single child entrusted to us. It takes sacrifice, creativity, intensity and uncommon valor in every classroom, in every school, to address the needs of our kids one by one.

In Fayette County, our achievement gains have begun to eliminate these disparities. We now have models of schools that are helping all students meet success, and we are working to replicate those proven practices in our other schools. When we can ensure that every student is able to think creatively, apply critical problem-solving skills and participate fully in our democracy, we will change our community and our country for the better.

Budget Update: I just want to re-emphasize with everyone that even though we have had to make adjustments to our budget because of revenue projections, our district continues to be in good shape financially. As I have shared with you before, other than the normal spring processes that we have to follow by law, we do not anticipate additional general fund staff reductions related to the budget at this time.