Welcome back to school, whether you have been a long-time resident in Oxford or this is your first year experiencing our schools and community!

I am assured you will find almost six hundred conscientious and trustworthy employees, including bus drivers, food service personnel, support staff, teachers, administrators, and Board of Education members, all who are dedicated to creating a world-class educational experience for each student. We have been working since the last student day in June to get Oxford Schools ready for your return in order to make your experience the best yet.

We have made several enhancements to our facilities and operations (both inside the buildings and outside) that impact our three A’s – Academics, Arts, and Athletics. New scoreboards and sound system components were installed at many of the fields, gymnasiums, and performing arts center. Floors have been sanded and polished, a portion of Wildcat Drive (entrance to the Middle School) has been repaved, and the buildings have been thoroughly cleaned. Operationally, we have also updated our dress code expectations. Several years have passed since this code was last addressed, and while I don’t think it’s appropriate to list the entire code here, I will say this: we expect our students and staff to dress modestly. I am sure many people have a different definition of what modest means; however, I think it is the best word to describe our expectations. We endeavor to create an environment that is comfortable, inviting, and most importantly, safe for everyone.

This year, we are going to emphasize the fourth “B” in our winning game plan: have a Ball. You can have fun even when situations are difficult or you are learning a new subject or skill. The key is to engage with those around you. As such, there are different kinds of engagement (e.g., social, emotional, and academic). The more ways you are engaged, the higher the likelihood you will find enjoyment. Team O strives to provide numerous opportunities in the three A’s in order to help you find and develop your passion(s). Pursuing your passion drives you not only to become your best, but it also inspires others to do the same.

The 4B winning game plan:

Bring your best: Work hard every day and in everything you do. Be sharp, show good judgment and use common sense. In each of your classes and every day, you have a choice whether you are going to bring your best.

Become your best: Never stop learning. Be reflective, as that is when learning takes place. In order to become your best, you have to take care of yourself. Get rest, eat right, and make time to exercise. Take care of your mind, body, and soul. Find time every day to slow down, quiet yourself, and be thankful.

Be good: Many times the last thing I say to students is “be good.” A more mature way of saying this is: be kind to one another. Most of the time, we have no idea what others are going through. Remember they are your teammates, classmates, colleagues, and neighbors. Be kind to those around you, be truthful, make people feel special, and give back.

Have a Ball: Have fun and love those that you serve and those who serve you. Seasons come and go; life passes by very quickly. Make every day count. Laugh loudly, enjoy one another, and be engaged on multiple levels.

Finally, we are placing both a bond and sinking fund proposal on the November ballot. More information will be forthcoming about these vital referendums in the weeks ahead. We are blessed and fortunate to have incredible programs and people. The schools belong to you, the students and the families of Oxford, and we are grateful for the opportunity to partner with you. Welcome to a new school year!