Education is the core of our work and our values are the fundamental beliefs in which guide our work at the Calgary Board of Education. Putting students first, knowing that learning is our central purpose and that public education serves the common good, provides focus for each one of us regardless of our role. Because the cool thing is, we all have a part to play in public education and we are all in this together.
From the dedicated staff in facilities who ensure safe and caring schools, some of whom have been with CBE for over 35 years (WOW), to our kind lunch room supervisors and our caring education assistants who support our students, to our specialists in planning, transportation, Human Resources and Technology who without their support our massive organization may just grind to a halt. All these folks work tirelessly to ultimately support the work of our teachers and here is what I know; teachers are a rare breed. They are hardworking, selfless, caring, role models to our students who put in countless hours to ensure that our students are engaged and successful.
However all of this would not be possible without our partners, over 350 corporate and non-profits who provide programs, services, supports and financial aid because they also care about student success and making this world a better place.
Everyone has a stake in Public education and the stakes are high, as we strive to meet the demands in an ever changing world. Dealing with change, difficult decisions that result from change and often scrutiny can be stressful and demoralizing for those intimately involved in education who have devoted their lives work to making this world a little better. But here is the thing, we are all human and sometimes we make mistakes and we need to learn from those mistakes so that we can be better for our students and that is why we need to reflect.
CBE 182 has given our staff, students, parents and stakeholders an opportunity to share the great work that is happening each and every day in our school. We are able to hold our heads a little higher and to showcase to the world that at the Calgary Board of Education we are determined, resilient and committed to student success.
To everyone who is involved at the Calgary Board of Education, Congratulations for a great year, Thank you to each and every one who contributes to our organization and hears to moving forward together.