Welcome
Glenn Fortmayer
Greetings from the Superintendent
Hello, I hope each of you is having a great summer. I arrived July 1st to begin my duties here with USD 247. Everyone I have met has been so gracious and friendly. Staff members have been wonderful to work with during this transition. My wife Lorie and I appreciate the kindness and support we have been shown. We are very excited about being here.
Education in Kansas has been a stressful work field for several years. Since the start of the decade No Child Left Behind mandates have caused a great deal of pressure on teachers and staff. The economy failing in the past few years has just made a stressful situation turn in to one of very survival for many districts around the state. USD 247 has been fortunate to remain in better shape than many sister districts statewide.
However, we do face many challenges as we enter into the new school year. Financial uncertainty looms heavy over us. It will require sacrifices. These efforts will not be to just maintain what we can, but to be able to move forward. While many districts are in retreat mode, USD 247, will be actually adding services, programs, and making progressive changes to provide students with educational opportunities that will improve their future quality of life.
It is my hope, that through the expansion of our technology tools and training in conjunction with the specific interventions that we are receiving funding for through the federal grant, we will be able to deliver a world class education for our students. This will be in terms of academic excellence and in greater course offerings. The programs will address the needs of students desiring more assistance in core subjects to greater ensure their success after graduation and those seeking to either challenge themselves more or wishing to explore a wider range of academic interests.
As a superintendent, I take seriously my assigned responsibilities to assure for educational excellence for every student, care for the welfare of students and staff, maintain facilities and school property, and to be a good steward of tax payer funds. It is my duty to ensure that the laws, regulations, and policies governing the district are followed. I believe strongly that through adherence to these, students, staff, and patrons are treated fairly and in a dignified manner and that all can interact in a consistently just and inviting environment that promotes the best in academics for our kids and in a work environment for staff.
