Dear Teachers:

I am just like you. I define myself as a teacher first, and I lead with a teacher’s heart. I understand the pressures you are under and the challenges you face. 

I am also like our students. My life journey is very similar to many of the families in our district. I have lived their same experiences and want to bring healing and hope to our students through education. Join me in being relentless in doing what’s right for our kids. It’s not about one, or some, or most – it’s about all kids. 

As we work together, we may not always agree 100 percent, but know that I will always respect you, give you voice, and work with you to support students. You will have my ear and a seat at the table because it is important to me that you are involved in the decisions that affect your daily work in the classroom. I will listen to you and support you in good times and in difficult situations. I will recognize you for the professionals you are and give you the resources and opportunities to be creative, take some risks, and make decisions based on the goals of your campus and what’s best for your students.

This week is Teacher Appreciation Week, and I cannot think of a better time to begin serving you. I want to share my heartfelt gratitude to you for your hard work and dedication. Your teaching is a gift that will last a lifetime. Brad Henry once said, “A good teacher can inspire hope; ignite the imagination and instill a love of learning.” Thank you for your teaching and making miracles happen for our students. 

While this week is one of celebration, every week is one of appreciation. During my tenure in the district, I intend to meet with each of you annually to learn your hopes for your students and how we can better support your efforts. 

I believe in the philosophy that “it takes a village.” We are all in this together, and I am deeply honored and humbled to be serving you in SAISD. As we move forward, I will strive to support you, in a sincere wish that your calling to teach becomes even more meaningful and fulfilling each and every day. 

In service to the SAISD familia,
Jaime