GCSC: It's Up From Here!

Press release from the Gary Community School Corporation:

Crystal O'Brien

September 10, 2021

We’re nearly a month into the new school year, and I’ll be honest: we’ve hit some bumps in the road. Not surprisingly, it’s difficult to bring thousands of students back into school buildings in the midst of a global pandemic, a national bus driver shortage and persistent, record-breaking temperatures. In these opening weeks, the Gary community has been more than patient, resourceful and resilient, and I’m grateful for the support. I’m also thankful for the partnership of Mayor Jerome Prince, the City of Gary, the Gary Police Department, Gary Public Transportation Corporation, our faith community and area youth organizations for inserting themselves wherever assistance has been needed. Keeping our students safe is our number one priority, and by working together, we can best protect our youth.       Without question, the pandemic has been traumatic for our community and disrupted students’ ability to received instruction in an environment where they are most successful. We are committed to providing opportunities for them to catch up and grow academically, socially, and emotionally. The second reason is staff. Gary teachers, staff and administration have been through a lot over the last 18 months. They’ve adapted to remote instruction and other work duties, and in turn, helped bring thousands of students back to school buildings safely, where they learn best. Our team has gone well beyond the classroom, finding ways to serve thousands of meals, distribute thousands of devices, and meet our students’ and families’ needs competently and creatively.       That’s why—even with the challenges we’ve faced in these early weeks—I’m still optimistic about this school year. Our kids give me confidence. Our staff gives me confidence. Our community gives me confidence. As summer turns to fall, it is my that hope temperatures cool, the spread of COVID-19 subsides, and your support of our students and staff stays strong. How we handle our schools in the present will determine whether our community flourishes in the future. We’ve gone through some early bumps together, but the school year is long, and our opportunities are many. Here’s to a successful remainder of the school year. Up from here!

This press release was produced by the Gary Community School Corporation. The views expressed here are the author’s own.