Dear Ramily,

As we embrace this month of gratitude, I want to take a moment to share my reflections on the meaningful time I’ve spent truly seeing our students. Recently, I was reminded of the powerful quote, “I see you. Because in you, I see me.” This sentiment highlights the importance of genuinely seeing and understanding those around us.

Throughout this month, our students involved in “My Brother’s Keeper” and “My Sister’s Keeper/Port Chester Pearls” have reminded me of our fundamental human need to be seen. To be seen is to be respected and valued; it signifies honoring each person’s existence and making them feel wanted and needed as part of something greater than themselves.

One of the highlights of this month was a nature hike with our students and several incredible staff members. We walked, we talked, and we saw one another in a new way. The joy and excitement expressed by the students as they enjoyed the outdoors and each other’s company was a powerful reminder of the impact of connection. This experience was especially meaningful for our middle school students, who thrived in this environment.

We also had the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with both middle and high school students about their hopes and dreams. It’s amazing what you can learn when you simply ask them about their aspirations. Their responses ranged from wanting to buy a home one day to exploring the world. Most importantly, these conversations revealed that many of their hopes mirror our own lived experiences and achievements. The students expressed a strong desire for a successful future and a commitment to learning from one another, embodying the spirit of responsibility and kinship that defines our community.

This month, I also had the privilege of participating in a Restorative Zone meeting, where teachers and staff collaborated with a student to help him take ownership of his behaviors and develop greater self-awareness and self-regulation. The candid discussions about the unacceptable behaviors he had demonstrated were grounded in care, concern, and high expectations. Witnessing the student rise to the occasion during this powerful session left me feeling inspired and grateful for the transformative work happening at our middle school and throughout our district. Kudos to PCMS!

This Thanksgiving, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated teachers, leaders, and staff who strive each day to ensure our students feel seen and honored. Spending time with small groups of students and hearing their thoughts directly not only benefits them but also enriches us as parents, teachers, and leaders. By listening to their aspirations, we grow together as a community.

As we conclude this month of gratitude, I am thankful for the experiences we’ve shared and look forward to continuing to nurture these connections in the future. Wishing you and your families a happy and safe Thanksgiving holiday, filled with warmth, appreciation, and a deep recognition of one another.

A special shoutout of gratitude to: Mr. Shropshire, Mr. Sotherden, Dr. Rich Kennedy, Ms. Rascona, Ms. Pascuzzi, Mr. Santiago, Mr. Dowd, SRO Bautista, Mr. McIntosh of the Port Chester Youth Bureau, Mr. Boehm, Mr. Martinez, Ms. Halstead, Mr. Miceli, and Ms. Figura.

Warmly,

Dr. Aurelia Henriquez
Superintendent of Schools