Dear Westminster Community,

 

Gratitude.

 

Long time readers of my letters to the community know what an important word this is to me.

 

During my time as superintendent of Westminster Public Schools, I have often reminded myself and those I work with, to try and live life with “an attitude of gratitude.” It makes the difficult times manageable and the good times even sweeter.

 

This summer I wrap up my career with WPS … exactly 40 years after I decided to enter this rewarding and honorable profession of public education.

 

I have spent close to 30 years in WPS and it has truly been an honor and a blessing to work side by side with families and staff to help young learners reach their full potential. There is nothing more gratifying than to see a child learn and grow in the classroom and take those skills and sense of worth out into the real world.

 

As I prepare to hand the reigns over to Deputy Superintendent Jeni Gotto, I am optimistic about the future, for many reasons:

 

• WPS has a strong Board of Education in place with a commitment to our Competency Based System (CBS).

• WPS is making steady, consistent academic growth. We have been “off the clock” for seven years.

• WPS has a strong bench because of our policy of growing our own teachers and principals, Leadership at all Levels.

• WPS is in a strong financial position because of responsible budgeting and the passage of the 2018 mill levy override.

• WPS has the highest starting teacher salary in the state.

• WPS has a road map for the future because of our Destination 2030 Strategic Plan (link).

• WPS is moving quickly and creatively into the future with Ranum Reimagined.

 

You may recall that in 2016, we rebranded Adams County School District 50, a district with a long, proud history, into Westminster Public Schools with the tagline, Where Education is Personal. Our tagline was a direct reference to CBS and our personalized education system, but on another level, there is more to that phrase.

 

We truly are a family where we share in the ups and downs of life.

 

We have had losses and we have had celebrations.

 

We have made this journey together, and for that, I am filled with gratitude.

 

You will still hear from me occasionally as I will continue to support WPS and cheer on the good work.

 

Kindest regards,

Dr. Pamela Swanson

Superintendent of Schools