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| Message From the Superintendent | |
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April/May 2008  By Matthew McGarrity
Superintendent of SchoolsOver the past few weeks, I have started a new initiative with Dansville’s senior students. Throughout this semester, I am meeting individually with all seniors. We discuss their plans for next year, career ideas and their general interests. We talk about the highlights of their school experience, and also some things that, for various reasons, could have been better. This opportunity to meet with students has been one of the most enlightening experiences in my career as a teacher and administrator. It is a relaxed discussion, and a chance for me to also share what my role is in the district. From students’ perspectives, they may not quite understand what that role is. Dansville has students moving on to two-year colleges, four-year colleges, training programs or the military. Others are planning to go right into the workforce. What impresses me most is how knowledgeable they are about the path that they are taking. Many have visited colleges, programs and places of employment. Others have made important connections through teachers with potential employers. Their interests are diverse and they have worked hard to find the paths that will lead them toward their goals. Many times, students talk about some barriers that may be in place, preventing them from accomplishing their goals. In most cases with a few minutes of problem-solving, we can brain-storm some ideas that can either minimize those barriers, or at least come up with a plan to explore other options. The students’ excitement and willingness to share their goals and dreams always has me walking back to my office with a refreshed sense of the future for our students, and reinforces the importance of these discussions at an early age, at school, and especially at home with their parents and families. I truly look forward to all of my future meetings, and I especially look forward to graduation day, as do all of our seniors. As a community, we are proud of their accomplishments and excited for what the future may hold for each of them. If you have questions about this or other topics, do not hesitate to contact me at the district office (335-4000). |
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