The stockings are hung by the chimney with care, and it’s that time of the year to reflect on the many gifts we have been given (apologies for the lack of rhyme!). I thought I’d get us going by telling you some things I consider to be incredible gifts:
1. The Pettisville community is second-to-none. Time and again, you show up for our students in big and small ways. You come in droves to their concerts, you pack the gyms for athletic contests, you come alongside their initiatives, and you are a vital part of keeping and expanding our tradition of excellence. Your impact is seen and felt every day. Thank you and thank you again.
2. “Community” is bigger than what you see when you step out of your front door. This school year, we have Blackbirds from 13 different neighboring school districts who have joined our flock. What makes Pettisville such a special place is that when you look into a classroom, walk down the hallway, or take a seat in the cafeteria, all of these students are BLACKBIRDS regardless of where they may have come from. Community is truly bigger than our own backyards.
3. The gift of the Gingerbread Man being found by our kindergartners…again!
4. Coffee on the days I run after fog. And by “run” I mean in my vehicle. Running with coffee would be very dangerous. And, let’s be honest–I don’t run!
5. The simple moments before school when teachers are chatting about their days, and kids are fistbumping me in the hallway.
6. I’m thankful for the bittersweetness of kids growing up. As a parent of three Blackbirds, I admittedly turn a bit sappy this time of the year as I remember bygone Christmases and see photos from multiple yesterdays. Our kids grow up so quickly, and with every passing year, my wife and I feel the tug of nostalgia as we watch them grow into who they are supposed to be. Having a front row seat to watch your kids grow into incredible young men and women has been a privilege I don’t take for granted, and it is amazing to see how our older Blackbirds model high character and integrity for our younger students.
7. Deputy Schlosser not pulling me over on my way to school–yet.
8. We have the absolute best teachers and supporting staff. What a gift it is to work with a staff of professionals who love your kids and want to see them succeed in all that they do! One of the best parenting decisions my wife and I have ever made was moving to Pettisville to have our kids be mentored and loved by such incredible people. There is something special here, and it starts with the people!
9. The cafeteria’s sausage and cheese biscuit breakfast sandwich. If you know, you know.
10. There is much more to come. Pettisville Schools is built upon an incredible tradition of excellence. The bedrock of what makes Pettisville so unique is knitted together by the unwavering support, devotion, and love of our community. That tradition has allowed us to dream and visioncast an exciting future for our Blackbirds! Stay tuned–there is much more to come!
Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!
Josh Clark
Superintendent