The beginning of a new school year is just around the corner.
Even though it’s been 15 years since my last first day of school, I still remember the excitement and anticipation surrounding the start of school.
I always enjoyed preparing for the first day – organizing my school supplies and selecting my outfit from my newly purchased back-to-school wardrobe.
As the child of a teacher, I saw first-hand while growing up the hours of preparation teachers put in before school begins.
While teachers have the summers off, many spend a good portion of that time getting ready for the new crop of students who will fill their classrooms.
For this month’s issue, I interviewed Aaron Draganov, Thorndyke Elementary School’s new principal. Talking to Draganov, who grew up in Tukwila, his passion for educating children is apparent.
He taught fifth-grade before transitioning to administration. His desire to see students succeed in the school district he attended is inspiring.
Teachers face a wide array of challenges, especially today, in a society where school shootings are all too common and school budgets are continually cut.
Tukwila, like many school districts, is dealing with a budget deficit, as well as a dip in enrollment.
Administrators and the Tukwila School Board are working tirelessly to find ways to balance the budget and keep students in the district. They are exploring innovative ways to bring eduction into the 21st century for its students.
It is clear they, as well as the teachers in the district, are to dedicated providing students with best eduction possible, and that goal is at the forefront of their decision making.
As a new school year begins, let’s not forget to thank the teachers who make learning possible.
