An open letter to Principal Stephen Duch of Hillcrest High School in Jamaica:
Thank you for hosting me at Hillcrest last month. I know that having a group of visitors is not easy, especially on short notice. I was impressed with what I saw in the short time at your school: engaged students, passionate educators and a strong sense of community. I especially enjoyed hearing the students’ enthusiasm about the nine Small Learning Communities and about their teachers. I am particularly glad I got to visit the LifeCenter daycare center and the Senior Academy.
Reaching out directly to parents, teachers, students and principals is important to me and I plan to use my experiences in schools — as well as your input — to inform my work as city schools chancellor. I am so glad I had the opportunity to speak with you directly about your experiences and witness your excellent work firsthand, particularly in the early days of my assuming the chancellor’s role.
I look forward to working with you in the future, and thank you for everything you do for our students.
Cathie Black
City Schools Chancellor
Manhattan
