Hello #LeopardNation,
I’m sure this message finds you all ready for the Christmas Holidays. As we all get ready for some well-deserved rest, I hope you’ll take a moment to think back on what we all have gone through together in 2017. We handled a tornado that ripped through Van Vleck last February; a solar eclipse as we prepared for the start of school; a Category 4 hurricane; a devastating flood the first couple of weeks of school that affected a great deal of our students, staff, and community members; and the Great Blizzard of 2017 that delayed the start of a school day a few weeks ago. Now let’s throw in our annual state assessments last spring and summer (which I’ll add we did great) and a very successful bond election. Of course, I didn’t take into account any personal trials and/or triumphs we might have had along the way. Needless to say 2017 has been some kind of a year and won’t be forgotten any time soon.
\r\nWhether 2017 was bad or good for you and yours, I’m sure there are some things that we can find to be thankful about. I know I’m very thankful to live in an area that showed so much care and love for our neighbors during some of the trials I mentioned above. The unbelievable giving spirit that our staff, students, and community showed each other and the world make me very proud and thankful to be a VV Leopard. The over the top support that our #LeopardNation showed during our bond election is another reason to be thankful. You can’t believe how proud and thankful I am for the staff members and community members that worked tirelessly to get our students, staff, and community well-deserved, new and modern facilities that are soon to come.
\r\nI’m thankful for the leadership in each of our schools and departments. All faculty and staff support the mission of a “student-centered education” for all students in VVISD. Their commitment and tireless hours help create lessons which are meaningful and engaging to students.
\r\nI'm thankful to everyone for the wonderful first semester of school in VVISD. Fall sports, musical celebrations, theatre productions, and academic success mark the first months of the 2017-2018. Again let me take this opportunity to thank everyone for all they have done in making the start of this school year one of the best ever despite the craziness! We have had a productive start with our staff and students engaged in teaching and learning.
\r\nOn behalf of the district, we are thankful to our Board of Trustees for all their guidance, governance, and support for all students and staff. These individuals represent the voice of the #LeopardNation and keep the vision of Van Vleck ISD at the forefront of all decisions.
\r\nFinally, I’m truly thankful for the privilege of working with our staff, students, parents, community members, and the numerous individuals who help to make our district the best in Texas. My wish for all of you is to find peace and much needed rest.
\r\nClasses resume on January 8th. Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, Many Blessings to each of you, and we hope you enjoy the 2017 VVISD Holiday Video.
\r\nSincerely,\r\nJohn R. O’Brien
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