As we prepare for the Thanksgiving holidays, I would like to focus for a moment on what I feel is probably the most critical factor in a student's success – a great teacher. I know you've heard it before. Great teachers are the silver bullet. Well, it's true!

Take a moment to listen to my holiday message below. In it, I discuss the district’s focus on literacy and listen to what our kids have to say about great teachers. I have a feeling you'll be interested in what they said. I know I was. Watch the video message here.

As I've traveled across our district this semester, I've been nothing short of amazed at the enthusiasm and dedication our teachers have for our kids, schools, and community. I've seen teachers who listen, who have a positive attitude in the face of challenges, and who work with purpose and clear objectives.

I've seen teachers who expect their students to achieve and who are not afraid of challenging them. I've seen them perform as teams, celebrating with both laughter and tears, the wins and the losses. I've witnessed how our teachers adapted, connected, and explored alongside their students. I've also seen our staff members lift up students as well as entire families.

Every example has been a testament to the commitment we, the Spring Branch ISD family, have to build a learning experience like no other, in a place like no other. They confirm what the Meadow Wood students had to say about Mrs. Cox. (If you didn't watch my video – spoiler alert!) It's this commitment that attracts families to our community and keeps many of us here, and it's why I couldn't imagine being Superintendent anywhere else.

I thank you – no matter your role – for that commitment. Every member of our team is giving their best for kids. From preparing for work on the 2017 Bond Program to recruiting new staff to managing our finances and educating our parents, the magnitude of work that's going on every day to ensure our students have the best education possible is awe-inspiring.

I thank each of you – parent, community member, educator, staff member – for the work you do every day for Every Child. I hope you will find some time in the week ahead to reflect on someone who has supported your child or your work for kids. I encourage you to reach out and share your gratitude.

It's been a fantastic semester, and I am incredibly thankful and #SBISDPROUD to be the Superintendent of Spring Branch ISD.

Have a wonderful holiday break.