Dear CPS Community,
One of my first experiences with Cambridge Public Schools was in the fall of 2015 when I received a tour of CRLS classrooms from a small group of high school student leaders. At the time, I was a candidate for the Cambridge superintendent position and was thrilled to have the opportunity to talk with young people about their hopes for CPS. Surprisingly, I had the opportunity to re-connect with one of the same student leader “tour guides” - an alum now - at CRLS’s graduation a few weeks ago. He had come to celebrate his younger cousin’s graduation from CRLS and shared an update of his college journey with me. It was an unexpected and wonderful capstone to my tenure as Superintendent in CPS.
As I write my final community message as your Superintendent, I want to thank you for the opportunity to serve the children and families of CPS. I am proud of what we have been able to accomplish together over the past five years, particularly the efforts to create a multi-year strategic plan that centers equity and racial-equity in our improvement efforts.
I am also grateful for your patience and support during this past year when we faced great uncertainty and considered imperfect solutions as we sought to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. I am thankful to the School Committee, the Cabinet leadership team, principals and administrators, educators, staff, parent volunteers and many partners - from the City Manager’s office to the Cambridge Public Health Department to the many non-profit and community organizations, who supported our children and families during this year.
There is no question that the next few years will be critical for our young people’s academic and social emotional growth. There is much urgent work ahead to ensure that our vision for rigorous, joyful and culturally responsive learning is realized for every CPS student in every classroom, every day. Even as we have experienced 15 months of constant change, our vision for equitable approaches and outcomes has not wavered. When Dr. Greer assumes her position as Superintendent, the work will continue, and she will be supported by a brilliant and dedicated team.
It has been an honor to serve the children and families of Cambridge. I care deeply for CPS and will continue to root for you. I look forward to the many great things the Cambridge Public Schools and most importantly our young people will accomplish.
Sincerely,
Kenneth N. Salim, Ed.D.
Superintendent