As I finish up my first school day as superintendent, what a pleasure it has been.

I began my day wondering how the parking would go at Friday Harbor High School, and so far so good.

I attended the weekly Rotary meeting. Fellow Rotarians were very curious about the first day of school. I saw one primary age girl who missed her mom and the staff was doing their best to provide support and encouragement to help her adjust to her home away from home. One third-grade student, when asked what a superintendent did, said I was a “substitute.” That warmed my heart.

I saw elementary students line up for PE in a civil manner, being carefully taught the rules of engagement. Seventh-graders were busy learning how to work their lockers, making the big jump to secondary school. I saw boys and girls having a wonderful time at recess, and found students overall enthusiastic to return to school, to meet their friends and learn about their new classes.

One high school teacher I talked with was developing strategies to motivate students individually. I was impressed with our counseling staff who found new ways to reduce the need for schedule changes. Later in the afternoon, I saw our maintenance staff working to install a new scoreboard on the field.

Our secretaries were busy processing student paperwork and meeting the needs of families. Our principals were working hard to balance staffing needs and class sections. I say great care and attention being given to students with special needs. I saw teachers engaging students with high quality work.

It was a joy to be part of the learning community today.

Rick Thompson
Superintendent
San Juan Island School District