Dear Burley Community,

As my time at Burley comes to an end, I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude. The memories we’ve created together will remain in my heart. 

Thank you for the gift of your children - their bright hope and optimism for the future has been the guiding force in my career and will continue to inspire my next steps and future path.

Thank you to the Burley staff for your partnership, camaraderie and commitment to Burley. I am proud of what we built together. You have always been champions for the students - continue to always ground your actions and decisions in what’s best for children and Burley will always continue to be exceptional.

Thank you to the LSC, staff and community members who gave up so much of their summer to ensure an amazing new leader was hired in time for my exit - I have been so honored to have the time to get to know Principal Crall these last two weeks. Burley is in capable hands. Jenny is amazing and perfect for Burley. 

Thank you to you. The Burley community is much more than just a collection of individuals - it’s a tapestry of diverse talents, ideas, and passions woven together working to achieve the same goal. You are the true heartbeat of this special school and you model what’s possible in society at large. I am immensely proud of what we’ve accomplished together. 

While my time as principal may be ending, my belief in the boundless potential of this community remains. Continue to collaborate, innovate, and inspire one another. Embrace new challenges with the same vigor that has brought us this far and never ever lose sight of the incredible impact you can make within Burley and what it means even beyond our school community. The mission of public education is important - your engagement in making Burley successful makes it a model for all that is possible in the city of Chicago.

Leadership is not defined by a single individual. It is defined by the strength of a fully engaged community. As you and Principal Crall continue writing Burley’s next chapter, I know you will continue to thrive and achieve greatness together. 

With a grateful heart, 

Catherine Plocher
Burley Principal 2012-2023 (and forever friend and neighbor)
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