September 9, 2024

Dear Students, Parents, and Educators,

On behalf of the Smyrna School District team, I am delighted to extend a warm welcome back to school to each of you. I am filled with excitement and anticipation as we begin another year of learning, growth, and achievement within our district.

The start of a new school year is always a special time - It brings a fresh start and the promise of new opportunities. Whether you are a returning student, a new family joining our community, or a dedicated staff member, we are thrilled to have you with us. Each of you plays a vital role in making the Smyrna School District a supportive and dynamic place for learning and growth.

Contrary to the belief that the school districts shut down for the summer, it has been a busy period for us. Our dedicated administrators and staff have been hard at work preparing for the upcoming year. From updating our curriculum to ensure our facilities are in top condition, our focus remains on providing a safe, inclusive, and high-quality learning environment for all students.

I am also pleased to share that the Board of Education approved the Smyrna School District Strategic Framework, which includes new vision and mission statements, as well as revised Five Commitments to Stakeholders. The Strategic Framework outlines the Profile of a Learner, Profile of a Graduate, and Profile of a Leader, setting a clear path for our district's goals and objectives.

In addition, the Smyrna School Board of Education has approved a new Personal Electronic Devices Policy, which will take effect on September 3, 2024. For more information on this and other important announcements, please visit our website or Facebook page.

Superintendent Shoutouts:

• Ms. Christina Hudson, Director of Finance, was named the 2024 School Business Officer of the Year by the Delaware Association of School Business Officers.
• Mr. Erik Wilson, Principal at Clayton Intermediate School, was named Outstanding Administrator Award for the 2023-24 school year by the Delaware Music Educators Association.
• Mrs. Jessalynn Johnson, Public Information and Communications Specialist, was awarded an Excellence in Publications and Digital Media in the Branding/Image Package category by the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA).
• Meredith Webb, Teacher at Clayton Intermediate School, was named a 2024 Court of Creativity National Finalist for creative math instruction.
• Educators Rising members were named National Champions at the Educators Rising National Conference for the second year in a row.
• FFA members were named as the top Chapter in the State, and were named a 3-Star Chapter by the National FFA Organization, which is the highest rank a chapter can receive.
• The Class of 2024 received $3,549,033 in scholarships. Local scholarship money was $376,055.

As we embark on a new school year together, I want to emphasize the importance of collaboration and communication. Our partnership with families is essential to the success of our students. I encourage you to stay engaged, ask questions, and participate in school events and activities. Together, we can ensure that each student reaches their fullest potential.

Once again, welcome back! I look forward to an inspiring and successful school year ahead.

Sincerely yours,

Dr. Susan P. Brown, Ed. D., CSBA 

Superintendent of Schools

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