Superintendent's Message

Message from David W. James

(May 2013)

If you are the way I am, you probably carry in your car some boots, an umbrella, at least two coats (heavy and light) ... maybe even a poncho. And don't forget the ice scraper.

In Northeast Ohio, April is full of weather surprises. In 2013, we have seen them all.

The reason I point this out is to remind us all that life is unpredictable. Most every spring here at APS – and, I seem to recall, in my own youth at my school – we watch as our students ratchet up their energy levels to match the temperature and the U.V. index outside.

I am fond of telling friends, "Our kids vibrate at a higher rate in spring." Some days, we can almost feel it in the air.

Among the challenges we face is harnessing that energy and keeping the activities associated with it creative, positive. Spring sports, outdoor science projects, amazing art and performing arts programs, and competitive achievement events with other schools showcase the talent and intelligence of APS kids ... springtime brings these highlights to our school year.

We also see an intriguing rise in some other activities that keep our teachers, administrators and student services folks hopping. It's not as unpredictable as the weather because, for as long as we have had schools, I'm sure we have had youngsters pulling pranks, especially in spring.

But, APS has it all covered.

Our teachers, principals and support staff do an amazing job every day of handling the unexpected and the expected – from the harmless, yet distracting, pranks to the more serious events that keep us ever mindful of the priority we have for the safety and security of everyone in our community, especially these wonderful young people.

Keep an eye on your kids. Keep an eye on other people's kids, too. It works when we're all paying attention. Put that vigilant spirit in your car, too, along with your umbrella, coat and boots – especially in springtime.

Enjoy the warmer weather, and stay safe.

Sincerely,

David W. James
Superintendent