Some words from Secretary Tutwiler

Much of the time when someone like the Secretary speaks, the reporting (if there is any) focuses on the policy piece. This was true again yesterday, as reporting on Secretary Tutwiler's remarks at the Conditions of Education in the Commonwealth" event by the Rennie Center focused on early literacy. 

And no complaints! We need to know that!

But I also think it matters when our educational leadership gets it, when they show where their values are, when we can see that they're thinking holistically and about all involved. I thought Secretary Tutwiler's closing yesterday did that, so I am sharing those words here:

We promise to advance equity and inclusion, because every student deserves an education system where we’ve eliminated barriers and practices that further existing disparities. 

 We will maintain a holistic perspective, because every student deserves an education system that encompasses the broad array of factors that impact their learning and development, including but not limited to mental and physical well-being and their hierarchical needs. 

 We will embrace collaboration, because every student deserves an education system that values and embraces the perspective, experience, and expertise of the communities it serves. 

 We will champion innovation, because every student deserves an education system that welcomes bold, new ideas, sources input from a broad constituency, and strives for excellence through innovation. 

 And just as we bring our passion for student success to this work, we also bring our encouragement of one another as colleagues. 

We will strive to center fulfillment, because every student deserves an education system powered by joy and resilience. 

 Those values, from equity to innovation, describe the north star we’re envisioning for ourselves, for our schools, for our educators, and for our students. 

But we can’t do it alone. 

We rely on the partners in the room to carry out the investments, policies, and the work needed to meet these goals. 

So, thank you for your continued support. And together, we’ll strive onward.