Former Superintendent of Schools Karen Berasi had the courtesy to send the Observer a copy of the retirement letter she sent to the Board of Education.
October 26, 2018
Dear Board Members and Suffield Public Schools community,
This letter serves as my official notification that I am retiring from my position of Superintendent of Schools on June 30, 2019.
I would like to thank the Suffield Public Schools community for giving me the opportunity to lead the district with my vision of providing all students with the best opportunity to be successful in the world of tomorrow. I am proud of my lifetime of good works and accomplishments for the benefit of children, but my most memorable will be what we accomplished together in the past three years.
I thank you for bringing my vision to life through your daily work. Teaching capacity is growing through increased professional development, collaboration time and early release days. We are reaping rewards in teaching and learning through focus on strategic budgeting that shifts resources towards better student outcomes. We are increasing district coherence by implementing district norms, a growth mindset, a “know your kids” approach and empowering principal and teacher leadership. We put research and data front and center, established an improved Teacher Growth and Evaluation Plan and process, increased social-emotional supports and upgraded security and technology. These are only a few of the vital accomplishments established to move the Suffield Schools forward.
I thank all the administrators, faculty and staff who dedicate themselves to professional reflection and growth in order to put students first and ensure success for every child. Together, you will build on our accomplishments and continue to make a difference in the lives of our students.
Respectfully,
Karen Berasi