Friday Message
December 18, 2020
A Message from Dr. Ryan Glaze, Superintendent, Tipton Community School Corporation
As I pause to reflect on the events that have transpired over the past 10 months, the following stand out to me: 1) How well our students, teachers, and staff have progressed through so much change and challenge. 2) Even in trying times when we are apart, we are still together. 3) This pandemic has served as an important wake-up call for those who have taken our public education system for granted. 4) It is an honor to serve as the superintendent of TCSC.
I am in awe of all that has been accomplished in how and where we teach and learn as we work around and through this pandemic. In a matter of weeks, we rethought hundreds of years of formal education and through the use of technology, E-Learning, and a variety of digital platforms, created opportunities to teach, learn, and stay connected in new and different ways. We were able to keep our buildings open and classrooms safe for students to learn for the majority of the first semester.
While it has not been perfect, we continuously work to improve upon practices, protocols, and processes to make it more successful for all students. The experiences, successes, and even the setbacks are helping to pave the path forward through this unprecedented time. We have learned to meet many of these upending moments through collaboration and creativity.
I wish to share the same sentiments regarding Jennifer McCormick as my colleague Dave Driggs. I've known Jennifer for nearly 20 years as a teacher, school and district administrator, and as superintendent of public instruction. She has been a shining light for public education and the 90% of school age children who attend Indiana public schools. She has successfully transformed the Indiana Department of Education into a strong institution of value and support. We appreciate her countless contributions, guidance, and passion shared during her tenure. She will be missed.
It is my pleasure to welcome our newly appointed Secretary of Education, Dr. Katie Jenner. As we prepare for what may be a difficult session when the 122nd Indiana General Assembly reconvenes on January 4, we are hopeful some of the financial solutions generated by the Governor's Next Level Teacher Compensation Commission can be implemented among other impactful items for public education this session. We look forward to working with and leading together with Dr. Jenner to make a brighter future for Indiana students and educators!
During this season of giving, nothing exemplifies the "Tipton Way" more than the compassion, care, and generosity I see among our students, staff and community who contribute in untold ways to help those less fortunate or who have fallen upon difficult times. One program that has been a staple of our corporation and truly embodies “The Tipton Way” is “My Closet.” Under the leadership and tireless efforts of Gena Shultz, this new clothing pantry has been providing students in need access to new coats, shoes, clothing, and gifts for more than five years.
Without a doubt, 2021 promises to be an exciting and rewarding year. No matter the location, we will continue to do everything possible to support learning for all students throughout the next semester beginning on January 4, 2021. On behalf of the entire TCSC family, I wish each of you a wonderful holiday season and Winter Break. #TiptonPride
TES Sing-along 2020 Style
Calendar Updates
Monday, January 4-First day of Second Semester (Pk-12 students will be virtual)
Monday, January 18-Students Return to In-Person Learning (more details later)
Monday, February 15-President's Day (eLearning make-up day)