Welcome back. I know we are going to have a great year in the Griffin-Spalding County School System. The enthusiasm was palpable on Wednesday during the Classified Employee Kick-off and the Education Celebration in the auditorium. That morning, we kicked-off the new school year honoring our 2016-17 Classified Employees of the Year. These employees represent the very best of the best and I applaud them and thank them for their important service to our students and families. In the afternoon, Myron Dueck delivered a powerful presentation to our certified staff highlighting the messages we send to our students. Many of you made comments that the presentation put a new light on your interaction with students and parents. Myron was impressed with the attention and enthusiasm he felt from you. Another highlight of our celebration was the Teachers of the Year parade. You have selected a great group of educators to represent your schools this year. As I went around to schools during Open House on Thursday, I noted the banners outside the classrooms of those honored. The banners were hung with pride - as well they should be. Enjoy and celebrate excellence with us. A new adventure begins with the opening of the Griffin Region College and Career Academy in a few days. Room 104 on the University of Georgia- Griffin campus was overflowing with students and parents excited about the opportunities GRCCA brings. This culminates three and a half years of planning and preparation by a large group of educators and business partners over a three-county region. The first formal classes will be held on Monday, August 15. It will be a good day for GSCS! Finally, I want all of us to consider ourselves "Agents of Change" this year. As our vision statement puts it, "GSCS will be an agent of change, transforming our students into future-ready learners and contributing members of society." You work daily with students and have the ability to transform them through a love for learning. Agents, are you ready? Also, if you are not already doing so, please follow me on Twitter @JamesDSmith2. I will be posting my thoughts and information throughout the year. Enjoy a great start to 2016-17! Sincerely, Jim Smith School Superintendent
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