Dear School District 308 Family:

It is hard to believe that the 2020-21 school year is coming to a close. On Saturday, we graduated a little over 1,400 students at Northern Illinois University. It was great to see the class of 2021 together as a full class! At graduation I stated, “with every end there is a new beginning”. I know how hard this school year has been on everyone. As we end this year, and look forward to the next, I find myself excited and optimistic, looking towards next year as a new beginning for us all.

Although this year has been difficult, I hope that your school year has been filled with many rewards and successes, knowing that you have made a difference in the lives of our students. I received and have been copied on many emails from parents who have shared the impact each of you have made in the lives of those we serve.

On Saturday, I acknowledged all of you by stating, “Teachers, we salute your efforts. Over the years, you have made it your life’s mission to teach, nurture, and guide these young adults and so many others. You have taught our graduates subjects like math, English, science, social studies, kinetic wellness and fine arts. However, that is not all. You have taught them about right and wrong, about beauty and truth. You have taught them about life”.

Words cannot describe how appreciative I am of your commitment and dedication to our students, and the mission to provide a high quality education that all kids deserve. Over the past couple of weeks, I have tried to visit as many schools as possible. I wish I could have seen all the smiling faces behind the masks, but what I have seen, are the smiling eyes and the happiness that each of you bring out in our students each day. In closing, I would like to say:

Thank you for all that you do! You are appreciated!

SD308 is a special place because of all of you!

If you are leaving us, I wish you the very best in the future. I hope that you all find time this summer to rest, relax, spend time with family and loved ones and reflect on the incredible opportunities we have to positively influence kids.

Take care, be safe and again, THANK YOU for making the most of a very tough year and I look forward to a great 2021-22 school year.

Sincerely,

John

Dr. John W. Sparlin

Superintendent of Schools

Oswego Community Unit School District 308

4175 Route 71

Oswego, IL. 60543