I wanted to take a moment before the end of our day to address our observance of Veteran's Day tomorrow. I hope you all get an opportunity to spend time doing things you love to do, spending time with friends and family. But I also hope that you take a moment to reflect on why we are observing this day. It is particularly relevant to me as I just returned from spending a few days with over 3500 service men and women of the Navy. My experience reminded me of the commitment these people make to give us so many opportunities and freedoms. In fact, given so many of our soldiers today are millennials, the officers reminded us of the commitment these young people make and how challenging that can be on them today. When aboard one of our military vessels, they have to be "dark" as far as communication goes, which is an incredible difficulty on people today. They also spend weeks and months out of communication with family and friends. Their sacrifices come in many forms.
Like every other community in America, we too have men and women who have served. I am proud to see how our community honors and shows appreciation to our veterans for their commitment. To any of you on our staff who have served, serve currently through reserve work or to those who support a wife, husband, sibling or child that serves our country, I want to say thank you.
I have a number of family members who have proudly served, and as many of you know, I have a step-son who serves actively in the 501st airborne in Alaska. I feel the concerns for his safety as a parent and immense pride for his choice to serve his country. I know we all appreciate the commitment and sacrifices our military makes for our benefit.
Please enjoy your Veteran's Day, but more importantly, please take time to thank a veteran for giving you the opportunity.
Kym LeBlanc-Esparza
Superintendent
