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Superintendent’s Update for February 22, 2023

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Dear APS Families,

As part of our commitment to student safety and well-being, I want to provide updates on our continuing focus on substance abuse and opioids, as well as our division-wide efforts to strengthen culturally relevant and inclusive instructional activities. We appreciate the support and partnership of parents, guardians and community partners in these efforts.

Community Conversations on Substance Use – I invite families to join us for the upcoming community conversations at our high schools, providing information about opioids, fentanyl, and naloxone, as well as warning signs of substance abuse. The meetings are also open to elementary and middle school families. All meetings take place from 7 – 8 p.m.:

Yorktown: Mon, Feb. 27
Wakefield: Wed, March 1
Washington-Liberty: Thu, March 2

For awareness, the Arlington Career Center held its event in January, and H-B Woodlawn is holding an event for current families as part of an upcoming PTA meeting.

Commitment to Inclusive Instruction – We have an expectation that instruction in APS is inclusive and culturally sensitive to the diversity of our student body. A recent incident that occurred in our schools did not reflect our values. I have requested the Offices of Academics and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion provide stronger guidance for developing activities and lessons that are inclusive and appropriate for all. We have made strides to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion here at APS, but we still have work to do.

FY 2024 Budget – I will present my proposed FY 2024 Budget tomorrow, focusing on investing in students, staff and schools. The first budget workshop will also take place on Thursday. View the full budget calendar.

APS is Hiring Teachers! Join us for the Virtual Job Fair on Sat, March 4. APS is currently looking to fill the following teaching positions: Elementary, Special Education, Math/Science/English Learner and School Psychologists. Please share this information with others who may be interested. For more information, visit the APS website.

As we conclude our celebration of Black History Month with events taking place around the division, keep an eye on our social media platforms as we highlight our Black History Month student leaders.

Thank you and enjoy the rest of the week.

Sincerely,

Dr. Francisco Durán
Superintendent

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