Embracing a new school year as we ‘Aspire Higher’

by Christine Fitzgerald
Superintendant, San Juan School District
As we embark on the 2024-2025 school year in the San Juan School District, I am filled with optimism and excitement for what lies ahead. This year, our guiding theme is “Aspire Higher,” a call to all members of our community to reach for new heights in our pursuit of excellence.
At the heart of “Aspire Higher” is the belief that every student has the potential to achieve greatness. We continue our commitment to helping students excel in gaining the knowledge, skills, and attitudes outlined throughout the competencies of our SJSD Portrait of a Graduate. We are dedicated to nurturing well-rounded individuals ready to face the challenges of the future. These competencies—critical thinking, collaboration, communication, creativity, and citizenship—are integral to our educational approach, ensuring that each student not only thrives academically, but also grows as a responsible and engaged member of our communities.
Our dedicated staff members are the backbone of our district. Their unwavering commitment to our students’ success is truly inspiring. This year, we continue to invest in professional learning including paraeducator training, autism training, early learning supports with new curriculum in preschool and elementary language arts, and AI best practices. We are also continuing targeted support for Career and Technical Education, Bilingual Education, Student Services, Teacher Leaders, and School Leadership Teams. This investment of time and fiscal resources in professional learning supports our team in their mission to unite, educate, and empower. By fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, we enable our teachers, leaders, and staff to continuously improve their practice and deliver the highest quality education.
We recognize that parents are our most valuable partners in education. Your involvement and support are crucial to our students’ success. This year, we are enhancing our efforts to engage and empower parents through increased communication, opportunities for involvement, input on district goals and initiatives, and resources that support learning at home. We have heard your concerns about providing a safe and healthy school environment and continue to improve systems and supports in each building and in every classroom. District and school leaders are focused on Aspiring Higher through building trust with all members of our community. Together, we can create a strong, united community that encourages and motivates our students to reach their fullest potential.
As we begin this new school year, I encourage everyone in the San Juan School District community to embrace the theme of “Aspire Higher.” Let us work together to create an environment where every student can achieve their goals and where every member of our community feels supported and empowered. By aspiring higher, we can achieve excellence.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our students’ success. Here’s to a fantastic school year ahead!