BOARD OF EDUCATION ARESTA L. JOHNSON, mo. {my Ha" 45 ?mice MEMBERS OF THE BOARD cont. Superintendent of Schools Bndgeport, Connecticut 06604 MARIA PEREIRA MEMBERS OF THE BOARD HERNAN ILLINGWORTH JOHN R. WELDON Chairperson SYBIL ALLEN JESSICA MARTINEZ CHRIS TAYLOR Vice-Chairperson JOSEPH J. OMB ARD JOSEP: SOKOLOVIC "Changing Futures and Achieving Excellence Together? LAMAR KENNEDY ecretary April 30, 2019 Greetings Bridgeport Public Schools Community, When I began my administrative career in Bridgeport Public Schools nearly twelve years ago, I committed to the school district and found the community exhibited that same level of commitment in return; the community continues to be champions towards the cause of providing the supports necessary for our students to succeed. Parental support and engagement are key ingredients in the successful education of our children and working alongside our parents to advocate on behalf of our students. I applaud and deeply thank our parents for their voice, courage, and strength, towards being champions for all children. During my tenure, I truly felt overwhelmingly encouraged by the steadfastness of our dedicated teachers, administrators, and staff members in moving the needle forward for our students. Your daily devotion to the work is recognized and has been sincerely appreciated throughout my time in Bridgeport Public Schools. Whether it has been advocating for a student or purchasing a ticket to the prom for our students, or making sure our students are fed and well-cared for, your extra mile is illuminated and held in the sincerest of gratitude as I would not have been able to do this without each and every one of you. In the eloquent and effervescent words of the illustrious Maya Angelou, diversity there is beauty and there is our students embody the strength, courage, wisdom, and advocacy embodied in the Bridgeport Public Schools vision of a high-performing learning environment, where students thrive academically, socially, emotionally, and civically. I will miss our children of Bridgeport Public Schools, as resign from my position of Superintendent of Schools on July 31, 2019. Thank you for allowing me to be a member of the Bridgeport Public Schools family. With warm regards,