Dear Parents, Students, and Community Members,

This school year at Thurgood Marshall Elementary School will be one of purpose, and possibility. All students will be valued, and supported, and every family is welcomed as an essential partner in our success.

With over 30 years of experience in education and a deep passion for student growth, I am honored to work alongside some of the most talented and dedicated teachers in the district. Together, we will create a school culture where every student feels valued, respected, and encouraged to reach their highest potential.

Our work will be intentional. You can expect consistent communication, a focus on both academics and personal growth, and a collaborative relationship between the school and community. We will partner with parents to ensure students not only meet academic standards but also develop the skills and confidence they need for the future.

This year, our work will be focused on:

• Strong academic monitoring to ensure that students are progressing in reading, writing, math, and beyond.
  We will track each student’s progress using real-time data, regular assessments, and targeted instructional strategies. Teachers will use this information to group students by skill needs, provide timely interventions, and push high-achieving students to reach even greater heights. Whether a child is building foundational reading skills, tackling complex math concepts, or exploring science and social studies, our focus is on steady, measurable growth for every learner.
• A focus on the whole child—their academic growth, social development, and emotional well-being.
  Students learn best when they feel safe, respected, and supported. Alongside academics, we will strengthen social-emotional learning by teaching self-awareness, empathy, resilience, and problem-solving. Our teachers, aides, and support staff will work as a team to help students navigate challenges, build positive relationships, and develop the confidence to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
• Open communication so families are informed, connected, and confident in the work we are doing together.
  Parents and guardians are essential partners in a child’s education. We will maintain clear and consistent communication through newsletters, phone calls, conferences, and school events. Families will have regular updates about student progress, classroom activities, and opportunities to get involved. Our goal is for every parent to feel they have a voice in our school and a direct connection to the people working with their child each day.
• Celebration of creativity through art, music, and opportunities for self-expression that reflect the unique spirit of our students.
  Academic skills are vital, but so is the ability to express ideas, emotions, and talents. This year, students will have more opportunities to showcase their creativity—whether through visual art, music, drama, writing, or schoolwide projects. We believe the arts inspire critical thinking, build confidence, and help students discover new strengths. At Thurgood Marshall, creativity is not an “extra”—it is an essential part of developing well-rounded, engaged learners.

We also believe that no school can truly thrive without active and engaged parents. Our Parent Teacher Association (PTA) provides families with a direct and meaningful way to collaborate with teachers, staff, and community partners in shaping the success of our students. The PTA is not just a support group—it is a driving force behind school events, student programs, and family engagement. We encourage every parent to get involved, share their voice, and help make Thurgood Marshall the best it can be. The PTA meets on the last Wednesday of each month, and your participation can make a powerful difference.

In addition, one of the most important commitments you can make to your child’s success is ensuring they are at school every day. Consistent attendance builds strong learning habits, keeps students on track academically, and strengthens their connection to our school community. Every day of learning matters, and together we can aim for perfect attendance this year. Let’s make it our shared goal to have every student here, on time, and ready to learn—because when students show up consistently, they succeed.

Thurgood Marshall will continue to be a place where students can take risks, try again, and grow—knowing they are surrounded by caring adults who believe in them. Our teachers are committed to innovation and collaboration, ensuring that each classroom is a place of challenge and encouragement. With our community’s support, the possibilities for our students are truly endless.

Let’s make this a year to remember.

Sincerely,

David R. Pinkney
Principal
Thurgood Marshall Elementary School