Dear Simon Youth Academy Teachers,
As Teacher Appreciation Week is celebrated this week across the country, I want to take the opportunity to show my appreciation and thank you for all you do for Simon Youth Academy students. Day after day, month after month, and year after year, you inspire your students to find hope for their futures and ensure they reach graduation day. Your work matters – not only to those students, but to all of us who are the S – Y – F.
Your dedication and hard work come through in both the big and the small moments. Supporting a student as she overcomes a difficult life circumstance and learns what it means to persevere. Giving small pep talks throughout the day to the student who you know needs a little extra encouragement. Helping a student fill out a scholarship application so they can have the means to pursue their dreams. Waking up 30 minutes early because you want to implement your new idea that day.
All of us at SYF are grateful for your commitment to helping your students succeed in school and in their personal lives. SYF consistently hears from students that their relationships with their teachers are the best part about attending our Academies. They know that they would not be where they are today without your support, and so do I.
This week, and every week, all of us at SYF are grateful for you. Our Academies would not be what they are without your dedication and passion. You are the reason that SYF has been able to maintain a 90 percent cumulative graduation rate and are on track to graduate our 20,000th student next May!
You are making a lifelong impact on your students and communities, and SYF is truly thankful for each and every one of you.
On behalf of all of us at SYF, and with sincere gratitude, happy Teacher Appreciation Week.
Michael
