Superintendent's Message
Autumn leaves show us it is OK to let things go because we know this makes way for new beginnings and a fresh start in the spring. Over the last several months, we have been forced to let go of how we normally do things which can be uncomfortable and overwhelming at times, but this “new normal” mindset has made way for a renewed outlook and the opportunity to embrace this season of life. In spite of the current circumstances we are in, we have had a positive start to the school year. We know it is not the ideal learning environment and want to get back to a “normal” school day as soon as possible. While we cannot control the timeline or outcome of this health pandemic, we can control how we support and encourage one another during this season. I have a quote in my office that reminds me: “We are all faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations.”
As we move forward, it is important we continue to focus on being flexible. Everyone is still adapting to the different learning environments and schedules. Students, parents, and staff are taking on multiple roles and are being pulled in many directions. Now more than ever we must all work together to ensure that we are Empowering All Students for Success by continuing to develop positive relationships, by keeping the lines of communication open at school and at home, and by remaining focused on having a positive attitude.
We will continue to monitor the current health conditions with the hope of returning to school full-time in the near future. At the beginning of December, we will send out information for families to choose which learning track their student(s) will be on for the second half of the school year, more details will be forthcoming.
Canal Winchester Local Schools will continue working hard to ensure that we offer and deliver a high-quality education no matter which learning track families choose. I am proud to be part of this school system and community that have come together to make a safe return to school possible. Thank you for the sacrifices you have made and continue to make so learning can continue. We are all in this together. And remember, make it a great day or not; the choice is yours!
Sincerely,
James Sotlar, Superintendent
PORTRAIT OF A GRADUATE Empowering All Students For Success means more than academic achievement. For our students to be prepared for life beyond graduation and for meaningful, self-sustaining careers, we must focus on the whole individual. Our Canal Winchester Portrait of a Graduate describes the skills and attributes that will empower all students for success now and in the future. The portrait describes the skills, attributes and character traits we believe our students need for life beyond graduation. Our goal is to develop the whole child: academically, mentally, socially, and behaviorally. The six themes are all equally important. The district will take the next year or so to develop a plan of action to implement the Portrait in grades K-12 and develop a measuring tool. We must focus on this as much as we do our academics. They are both important if we truly want to empower all students for success. PORTRAIT OF A GRADUATE
Respectful Citizens show empathy, compassion and kindness ? act with integrity ? model appropriate behaviors in different settings
Problem Solver think critically to analyze situations ? create solutions with diverse thinking ? persevere when challenged
Self-Aware Individuals show confidence in their strengths ? attend to their needs and well-being ? welcome opportunities to grow
Responsible Learners demonstrate self-motivation and discipline ? work hard to achieve goals ? reflect and improve
Collaborators build positive relationships ? cooperate on teams ? share success and accountability
Communicators listen for understanding ? strive for accuracy and clarity ? utilize technology and media effectively