BY CASEY CONGER
VIRGINIA BEACH — I am mom to two Virginia Beach students, wife to a Virginia Beach teacher, a graduate of Virginia Beach schools and the proud principal of Cooke Elementary School. I mean it when I say I am “all in” when it comes to the success of Virginia Beach schools.
In this age of cancel culture and passionate opinions on every matter coming from multiple sides, we have to drown out the noise and choose where we want to put our focus, energy and voice.
I know speaking before you could place me in a difficult position. However, at some point, silence is acceptance, and there are times a leader must use their voice to protect and elevate those who have entrusted them with a leadership position.
Our mission at Cooke is aligned with our division, and it is simple: love them, teach them, believe in them.
And we mean all of them.
Our diverse population is evident when you walk through the doors, but that only tells one part of the Cooke story. At Cooke, we have developed a school culture and climate where everyone is valued and given what they need to be successful. And that looks different to every student and every family.
In a recent social media post, one small community of learners was singled out and the increase of this population said to be “unsustainable.”
We have had to address other increases in our schools as we continue to navigate schooling during a global pandemic. I have seen increases in the number of students who have food and housing insecurities, who need additional academic support and services and who need mental health support.
But this doesn’t make anything unsustainable. It makes those of us doing the work more committed than ever.
Our English learners come from all over the world. Some are from NATO families supporting our military. Others have sacrificed and experienced things we cannot begin to understand. But all have one goal: to give their children an education and a better life.
I am here to ensure my school and community know we are more committed than ever. Nothing will derail us from our mission. Every student. Every day.
Providing support for one does not take away support for another. After all, a rising tide lifts all boats.
I would like to leave you with a few words from one of our students, Raul, who arrived at Cooke speaking Spanish with limited English but shows an unparalleled determination every day to learn and grow. Raul wrote:
“Sometimes things can get complicated, but nothing is hard with motivation. I am thankful for my family, my teachers, my classmates and my friends. Even though we went through a lot of things, we are still strong. I am thankful for all the support. No matter what, I will keep going. Cooke has always been where I belong. It makes me feel great and valuable. You make such a difference to me. Sincerely and Happy Thanksgiving, Raul.”
This is how I hope every child and adult feels when they walk into school every day in Virginia Beach. It is the very most sustainable aspect of who we are.
Teachers and staff do not leave this work because of the support needed for all students. This is not what causes staff shortages. They leave when they feel those who should have their back further deter them from their core values and mission.
Para mi comunidad Latina, te valoramos, y estamos contigo.
The author is the principal at Cooke Elementary School at the Oceanfront and the former principal at Creeds Elementary School. She lives in the Red Mill area.
© 2022 Pungo Publishing Co., LLC / Used with permission.