After 13 years of writing in one capacity or another for this newsletter it is with great appreciation that I write this final article.
Over the past decade plus we have climbed many mountains and have fallen off a few cliffs but at the end of the day I am very proud of all the positive things that I have been fortunate enough to be a part of in this District. Here are just a few of the highlights that come to mind as I reflect back.
- Average of 97% graduation rate and a year with 100%
- Open enrollment has changed from a 2 to 1 out vs. in to a positive net gain for the first time
- District tax rate has either remained steady or lowered over the past 7 years
- Re-established Professional Learning Communities (PLC), many technology upgrades and established a District social media presence
- FFA programming created and expanded to collaborate with DMACC for Regional Academy including a highly involved Friends of FFA Group
- Increased staffing in several areas including counseling, teaching core areas and teacher leadership and compensation positions (coaches, model teachers etc)
- Started a 3 and 4 year old after school program along with a before and after school opportunities.
- Saved and restructured a Grandwood program that was on verge of losing a substantial portion of state funding and potentially shutting its doors
- Mended and built on the relationship with Woodward-Academy to provide consortium opportunities for juvenile youth
- Passed an overwhelmingly positive bond issue and built a 10 million dollar 2nd-5th grade elementary
- Purchased and leased several new buses and maintained transportation fleet
- Updated all buildings with AC/HVAC and Security entrances/doors and cameras
- Established an administrative office building in Granger
- Helped to re-establish and serve on the WG Foundation Board
- Created lifelong community/family relationships
Finally, I would be absolutely remiss if I did not recognize and “Thank” all of the staff that I have had the privilege to work with over the years. For these individuals “Thank You” doesn’t even seem to scratch the surface of the respect and admiration that I have for all of you. I wish you all the best in your personal and professional endeavors.
So as a final goodbye, I wish all of you well and again wanted to express my true gratitude for the time that you have afforded my family and me. Take care and Godspeed.
Brad Anderson
Superintendent
