Happy New Year beloved, Senator Nation! I have achieved a six month milestone as the Chief Executive Officer and Superintendent of the Capital School District. As we launch the year 2022, we must all remain grateful for our health and all of the positive things we will achieve as Senators!
I am hopeful that your winter break and the additional two snow days were spent advancing care and family feastivities. As we start off our new year, our journey will be ambiguous and filled with the uncertainty of these present times. In advance, I sincerely thank you for your flexibility as we pivot between in-person and remote learning as a result of the weather, COVID related operational issues and health related concerns.
I want to encourage everyone to be diligent about your health and the health of your family. The Capital School District has partnered with Atlantic Apothecary and the Kent County Coalition to convene three free COVID-19 and flu vaccine clinics for staff, students and the community at various schools across the district. Special shout out to LaWanda Burgoyne for her tireless efforts in providing support to our district and managing all our COIVD related data. I want to also thank all the staff that continue to help lead this effort.
This week was like being on a rollercoaster as my leadership team and I grappled with decisions regarding how to proceed with operating our schools and districts. I urge everyone to exercise care and lots of patience. Please know that decisions to shift instruction are not met with ease. These are difficult decisions that have huge implications for everyone from students, staff, and parents that we do not take lightly!
This week, I attended several meetings with my fellow Kent County Chiefs, Statewide Chiefs, and the Department of Education. Also, I had additional meetings with various individuals and organizations such as the Greater Kent Committee, Governor Carney, IMPACT for Students with Disabilities through our partnership with the Ideals Institute at John Hopkin University and various superintendents across the state.
Senators, everyone is working fervently to keep schools open. We are extremely grateful to our committed families and staff who continue to show great flexibility and resilience as we work together. I ask for your consideration as we continue on our journey to “spur the audacity of hope to uncover the magic of new beginnings.”
Be safe and stay healthy!
Sincerely,
Dr. Vilicia Cade
Chief Executive Officer and Superintendent
Capital School District