Dear SPPS Staff,

As I sit down to write this, I’m not sure how to begin expressing my gratitude for how you showed up—for our students, our families and for each other—over the past few months.

With temporary virtual learning coming to an end, it’s important that we all take a moment to reflect on what has been an emotional, exhausting and difficult time for our extraordinary Saint Paul Public Schools community.

The presence of federal agents in our neighborhoods this winter brought fear and uncertainty to our students, families and staff alike. Despite our best efforts to keep our schools safe, we were navigating forces that none of us could shield our community from.

As we quickly pivoted to stand up a virtual learning option, you took on entirely new duties during a highly stressful time not only for our students, but for yourselves. While many of you readjusted to teaching through a screen, you stood in the gap for our students—because that is who you are. You ensured that our students felt connected to school, that they had access to food and devices, and most important of all, that they had a familiar face or voice to talk to, even when everything else felt terrifying.

Beyond what you did and continue to do, I want you to know who you are to this community. You are the steady ground for our families and the light for our students. You are the people our families trust to teach, nurture, and protect their children from harm. You are invaluable, and your dedication is unparalleled. As your superintendent, I couldn’t be more proud of the dignity, the worthiness that you brought to our community in this moment.

While I am thrilled to see many of our students returning to school, my heart remains heavy for those who may not be coming back. These past few months will leave a lasting mark on all of us. As you balance this complex mix of emotions, I hope you find comfort and pride in knowing that your work, your compassion, and who you are made a difference. As we move forward, may we carry both the weight of this moment and the strength it revealed in each of us.

On behalf of our school board, our families and our entire community, please accept our personal and heartfelt thank you.

With gratitude,

Dr. Stacie Stanley, Superintendent