New Region 14 Interim Schools Chief Introduces Herself

WOODBURY/BETHLEHEM, CT — New Region 14 Interim Schools Superintendent Christine Syriac wrote a letter to parents, students and staff concerning her Aug. 1 appointment to lead the school district.

Here is her full letter:

Dear Parents, Members of the Community and Students,

As we move into the start of the 2018-2019 school year I would like to take this opportunity to introduce
myself. I’m very pleased to begin serving as Interim Superintendent in Region 14. It is with great pride
and pleasure that I join the district. I would like to thank the Board of Education for this opportunity.

I look forward to assisting Region 14 in “inspiring excellence” while the Board of Education seeks to find a new Superintendent for the District. It is my intention to act as a bridge, to keep the positive work in the arena of student learning, curriculum, and instruction moving forward. To sign up for Woodbury and Middlebury breaking news alerts and more, click here.

It is my intention during this time of transition to uphold and continue the district mission of being a “community dedicated to ensuring an engaging and positive learning environment where every student becomes a respected contributing member of society who graduates prepared to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.”

I want to assure you that I will work diligently to help the system continue to be successful. I join Region 14 as an experienced Superintendent. I retired in June of 2017 with over 30 years of experience in education. The last 13 years of my career were with the Seymour Public Schools, the last five years of my tenure was as the Superintendent of Schools. I have experience as a classroom teacher, school counselor, assistant principal, principal and associate Superintendent. I have been a resident of the community for the past 26 years. I live with my family in Bethlehem; my daughter attended the Region 14 schools K-12 and graduated with the Class of 2011.

As anyone who is familiar with my leadership style and work will affirm, my philosophy is deeply rooted in the belief that “It is all about student learning. Period.” It is my belief and part of my theory of action that all students are able to learn more than they are currently learning and it is our collective work to make certain that happens. (Schlechty) That is our work.

As the leader of the district I am accountable to make certain that the administrative team and staff have the resources and skills necessary to successfully foster a climate that nurtures constant growth and achievement.

I look forward to working together over the next several months and together we can accomplish great
things. I realize that the excellence of Region 14 is the product of a strong partnership between the
school system and the entire community, and I will do everything I can to maintain and strengthen that
relationship. I would ask that when you see me at an event or out in the community please stop me and
introduce yourself.

With Warm Regards,
Christine Syriac
Interim Superintendent of Schools