August 7, 2024
Welcome back students! We are excited for another successful year with Sevier School District schools! We love the first day of school and the energy and enthusiasm that comes with it. Our teachers, principals, and support staff have worked hard all summer to prepare themselves and our schools for the return of our students. We have been working hard to build upon our successes and maintain a laser focus on our goals. We even have new playgrounds in all of all elementary schools this coming year!
There is no doubt that educators have a profound influence in each of our lives. I’ve mentioned many times and in many settings that I can name every one of my teachers from kindergarten to 12th grade and I also remember with fondness many of my favorite college professors. Each teacher had a unique influence on my life and I remember specific lessons learned as far back as kindergarten and preschool. These memories include many support personnel such as food service workers, bus drivers, instructional assistants, etc.
I have continued to visit frequently with my 5th grade teacher Mr. D. (Dave Dinodica), who had a powerful influence on my life. It is always a great experience to sit and chat with him and to personally thank him for his influence. He clearly took an interest in me as a 10-year old and looked for opportunities to teach me to believe in myself and to always do my best. He sparked my interest in reading and took extra time to help find good books that he knew I would enjoy reading. He also took a writing assignment I had completed and submitted it to a magazine, then gave me a copy of my published work. Imagine my surprise and joy to find my published article in a nationally syndicated magazine!
I could mention dozens of other experiences that I’ve had where Mr. D. took the time to show me he cared about me and went the extra mile to help me learn. I feel the same way about several of my teachers. To this day I am in close contact with Mr. D. and I often call him when I have things to celebrate in my life or when I am going through difficult times. I have similar relationships with numerous other teachers and school staff that I had growing up.
Please take the time to drop-in and visit previous teachers and school workers who have influenced your life. Find them on social media, send them an email, give them a call, or stop by and say thanks. This will be a positive experience for both you and them!
In Sevier School District we are always striving to improve communication with our students, parents, and the community. We are excited to continue our use of Binderly at all of our schools this year. The Binderly App is a great tool that anyone (including grandparents and family friends) can easily access from their phone, computer or device. Please download the Binderly App and sign up on your phone today to start following us. This tool will help you stay informed and up to date on all of the happenings in your child’s school. It is also the primary tool that your child’s teacher or coach will be using to message you.
We live in the most wonderful community in the world. The programs and possibilities for students from preschool through twelfth grade are limitless! Please check our website www.seviersd.org to learn more about opportunities for students and current happenings. With your help and support this will be our best year yet!
Cade Douglas, Ph.D.
Sevier School District Superintendent