Message from the Superintendent November 22, 2024
Dear Fayette County Public Schools Families, Students, and Staff,? ?
As we approach the Thanksgiving season, I want to take a moment to reflect on the meaning of this special holiday. Thanksgiving is a time to pause and appreciate the blessings in our lives – our families, our friends, and the opportunities we are given to grow and thrive. It is also a chance to express gratitude for the hard work and dedication that make our school community exceptional.
Thanksgiving Break is next week, from Monday, November 25, through Friday, November 29. Students will return to school on Monday, December 2. I encourage everyone to use this time to relax, recharge, and enjoy moments with loved ones.
Thank you for the part you play in shaping the lives of our students. Your commitment, passion, and support are deeply appreciated, and I am grateful to serve alongside such an incredible community. I wish each of you a joyful and restful Thanksgiving filled with warmth and gratitude.
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the families who joined us on Thursday and Friday this week to share Thanksgiving meals with our students. Your presence made these moments special, and we are grateful for your support and involvement!
I am proud to share that our principals recently attended the 2024 Tennessee Principals Conference, held from November 17-19 at the Dollywood HeartSong Lodge in Pigeon Forge. This event provided a wealth of professional development opportunities featuring esteemed speakers who shared valuable insights on educational leadership.?
Investing in the professional growth of our principals is critical because it directly impacts the quality of education across our district. The enhanced leadership skills they gain allow them to effectively guide teachers and staff, leading to better student outcomes. By staying current with the latest educational policies, curriculum updates, and technological advancements, our principals can implement evidence-based practices that benefit our students. Additionally, these experiences enable them to mentor and support our teachers, build a positive school culture, and strengthen teacher retention. Continuous learning empowers our principals to tackle challenges with innovative solutions, creating a ripple effect of excellence that uplifts our entire school community.
It is my honor and privilege to celebrate the remarkable achievement of Za'Mya Siler, a senior at Fayette-Ware Comprehensive High School, who has been named a recipient of the NFHS Student-Athlete Award of Excellence. This prestigious award, established by the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA) and the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), recognizes student-athletes who embody the highest standards of sportsmanship, integrity, and leadership.
Za'Mya exemplifies everything we hope to see in our students. Her unwavering commitment to respect, fairness, and teamwork has not only made her a standout athlete but also an outstanding leader and role model for her peers and younger students. Her dedication extends beyond athletics, contributing to a positive school environment and inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.
The NFHS Award of Excellence was created to celebrate student-athletes like Za'Mya, whose values and actions leave a lasting impact on their school communities. It is a privilege to see one of our own recognized at this level. Za'Mya will receive a certificate of recognition from NFHS Chief Executive Karissa Neihoff and TSSAA Executive Director Mark Reeves, a fitting tribute to her exceptional character and achievements.
Leadership, both on and off the field, is a cornerstone of our district’s mission to nurture the next generation of community and national leaders. Za'Mya’s accomplishment is a shining example of this mission in action. She reminds us of the importance of instilling values of integrity, respect, and good sportsmanship in our students.
On behalf of Fayette County Public Schools, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Za'Mya Siler. Her achievements make us all proud, and we look forward to seeing the many ways she will continue to inspire and lead in the future. Let her recognition serve as a reminder of the incredible potential within every student-athlete in our district. Well done, Za'Mya!
Starting January 8, 2025, Fayette County Public Schools will enforce a new policy banning cell phones and personal electronic devices during school hours. This initiative aims to enhance student focus, minimize distractions, and improve the learning experience. By reducing phone usage during school hours, the district expects to increase concentration, boost academic achievement, and limit classroom disruptions caused by notifications and social media. The policy also encourages students to engage in face-to-face interactions, reduces the chances of cyberbullying, and offers a needed break from digital exposure, supporting overall mental health. Ultimately, the goal is to promote responsible technology habits and establish a safer, more respectful, and engaging environment for student success.
Students who engage in regular physical activity, consume nutritious meals, and effectively manage chronic health issues such as asthma or diabetes tend to perform better academically. They achieve higher test scores, receive better grades, attend school more frequently, and exhibit improved behavior in the classroom. Prioritizing student health is key to fostering greater academic success and overall well-being.
Consistent school attendance plays a pivotal role in helping students build strong relationships, which are vital for their emotional health and future achievements. Showing up for school each day allows students to nurture these bonds, reinforcing the value of being present.
Dr. Versie R. Hamlett
Dates to Remember