Dear Lansing School District Community,
I hope that this newsletter finds you well. As always, it is a pleasure to be writing to you all.
On Friday, we hosted the First Annual Educator Appreciation Celebration at Eastern Fields. Hundreds of staff came out to eat hot dogs, play corn hole, and throw plastic axes at a bull's eye. There was even a dunk tank, which the Presidents of both LSEA and LASA and the principal of Lewton staffed. All three literally took a plunge for staff merriment. We had community partner and district hand-outs, like mental health gift bags and t-shirts. Staff could win prizes. Music was provided by All of the Above Hip Hop Academy (one of our great after school partners), with their Executive Director personally DJing. The weather was pleasant, and everyone felt the camaraderie. It was a wonderful event. I can't thank the Office of School Culture, the Communications Department, and SodexoMagic enough for their work in putting this event together.
Sadly, for many years, the district has failed to create traditions like this, where we come together to celebrate the great work of our educators. Sharing a meal, playing a game together, or just spending time with each other in a stress-free, positive environment creates bonds, trust, and friendships that a fruit basket or a nice email cannot approach. I do hope that this is the beginning of an annual tradition. I also hope that it spurs other school-based activities that can turn into their own traditions.
When I was a principal, our school had two favorite days, "March Madness" and "Field Day." The March Madness event was a staff-student basketball game. Inevitably, the students would destroy the staff. It was fun. Everyone loved it. Staff would get razzed by the students for weeks. I still have many of the t-shirts we made specifically for the event. Field Day was even more anticipated, with different grades battling each other over silly games like egg toss and three-legged races. But the grand finale event was always a tug-of-war between seniors and staff. It was great. It was a wonderful way for all of us, students and staff, to participate in something fun and enjoyable. Now, 20 years after the creation of these events, they are still going strong, embedded in the DNA of the school. I can't wait for us to create generational events like these for our district.
I also want to celebrate Mother's Day in this message. Today, millions of children will call, text, or even video chat with their mothers. If you are lucky enough to see your mother in real life, there may be a brunch or a dinner. As I write this newsletter, I can see that my neighbors on both sides have their families over for a get-together. Like the Educator Appreciation event, a family meal or party brings us closer and celebrates those we love. I hope you all can make time for family this weekend.
So, I want to wish my mom and all the moms reading this message a Happy Mother's Day. Thank you for your love, direction, and support on behalf of children everywhere.
And, of course, thank you to everyone reading this newsletter for your incredible support of our district. Together, we will do great things for the children of Lansing.
Benjamin Shuldiner, Superintendent
Lansing School District
