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As we welcome the summer season and reflect upon another successful school year, I extend my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the educators, administrators, support staff, school board members, families, and community partners across Ohio who have dedicated themselves to serving our students with excellence, compassion, and unwavering commitment.
This month, we proudly recognize and celebrate Juneteenth, a historic milestone commemorating the final emancipation of enslaved Africans in the United States. Juneteenth stands as a powerful reminder of the enduring struggle for freedom, justice, and equality. It marks a significant victory over the systems of slavery, Jim Crow laws, segregation, and institutional racism that sought to deny generations of African Americans their humanity and opportunity.
As educational leaders, we honor the sacrifices of those who fought courageously for civil rights and equal access to education. We also acknowledge that the pursuit of equity and excellence remains an ongoing responsibility. Juneteenth calls us to continue advancing educational opportunities that empower all students to reach their fullest potential while ensuring that our schools remain places where every child is seen, valued, and supported.
As the 2025–2026 academic year comes to a close, I want to personally thank Ohio's educators and school leaders for their extraordinary efforts. This year presented both opportunities and challenges, yet you continued to lead with resilience, innovation, and an unwavering focus on student success. Your dedication has made a lasting difference in the lives of countless children and families throughout our state.
On behalf of the Ohio Alliance of Black School Educators, I wish each of you a joyful, safe, and restorative summer. May this season provide opportunities for rest, renewal, reflection, and quality time with family and friends. We look forward to reconnecting in the months ahead as we continue our collective work of empowering excellence, advancing equity, and transforming educational outcomes for all students.
As you make plans for the coming year, please mark your calendars for the the 13th Annual NABSE Midwest Regional Education Conference, April 29 – May 2, 2027, in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana. This premier gathering of educators, administrators, school board members, higher education leaders, community advocates, and students will once again provide exceptional professional learning, networking, and leadership development opportunities. We look forward to welcoming you to Indianapolis as we continue to strengthen our collective impact on behalf of the children and communities we serve.
Thank you for your leadership, your service, and your commitment to the future of public education.
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