As we approach the holiday season, I’m reminded of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, one of my favorite Christmas classics, and how much it mirrors the dedication and persistence that you show every day. In the movie, Clark Griswold embarks on a journey to create the perfect Christmas for his family — despite everything going wrong, from the lights malfunctioning to the disaster of a family gathering. Through his relentless drive, Clark learns valuable lessons, faces countless challenges, and ultimately experiences the magic of the holiday season, all while keeping his sense of humor and love for his family intact.
Like Clark, you show that same kind of dedication. You put in the hard work, even when it feels like things are going off the rails. Whether it's managing the chaos of a classroom, navigating the unique needs of each student, or simply staying positive in the face of daily challenges, your persistence and care make all the difference.
The holiday season reminds us of the importance of finding joy in the moments, even when things don’t go according to plan, much like Clark's ability to keep his Christmas spirit alive despite everything that goes wrong. You may not always see the immediate results of your efforts, but trust that your influence reaches far beyond the classroom. Just like Clark’s holiday chaos, sometimes the most meaningful impacts are those that unfold in unexpected ways.
Thank you for your continued dedication, humor, and the warmth you bring to your classrooms. I hope this holiday season gives you the well-deserved rest, joy, and time to recharge, knowing how much you are appreciated.
Wishing you and your loved ones a Happy Holiday and a Happy New Year!
With heartfelt gratitude,
Shannon Fehrholz, Regional Superintendent
