November 23, 2021

Dear OCS Staff, Students, Families, and Community,

Last year, one of the things I missed most during the holidays was my favorite tradition: going around the table and taking turns sharing one thing we are thankful for. This year, I'm excited to return to this decades-long tradition. I also know I won’t be able to stick to one thing (just like I won’t be able to stick to taking one piece of sweet potato pie and one scoop of peach cobbler--smile).

I am thankful for our amazing students. As I’ve met with groups of students, they continue to tell me how happy they are to be back in person. They love seeing their friends, working in groups and talking with their teachers. From our Future Farmers of America students working directly with animals again to watching our football players execute a perfect play, there's been so much joy as we've returned to in-person learning. Watching them spend time with their friends, teachers, teaching assistants, school counselors, coaches, administrators, etc. again is an amazing feeling.

I am thankful for our staff's continued dedication, commitment and talents that make our students want to be in class — and their hard work making sure our kids are safe here. The news labeled this past year “unprecedented times.” But no matter the challenge, our team did everything they could to make sure our students could learn and thrive. Our staff puts students first.

I am grateful to staff, students and the community for adhering to the safety protocols that have kept us as safe and healthy as possible. Thanks to your diligent work, we've been able to loosen some of our COVID-19 rules, making the school year feel more normal. 

I am grateful for OCS leadership — the cabinet, extended cabinet, and our school board. We’re a team, working together to serve Orange County Schools’ children. They’ve consistently put children first, taking a stand for giving every child what they need to succeed through our equity and strategic plan work. 

We are still facing many challenges, but I remain hopeful and believe brighter days are ahead thanks to the wonderful OCS staff and community. I hope you have time to enjoy some good food and celebrate with your family and loved ones. Have a wonderful holiday, all! 

Yours in service to children, 

Monique Felder