To teachers, administrators, faculty, & staff....Thank You!

I wanted to take  time to write a personal note to simply say "Thank You" to all teachers, administrators, faculty, and staff at schools throughout South Carolina and the entire Country.

It was a pleasure being invited to join the Barnwell School District 45 District Advisory Teams to meet and discuss strategic planning for District 45 schools yesterday morning. I was very encouraged by the meeting and thankful for dedicated individuals striving to make our schools the best they can be.

Education is fundamental to our current and future generations, helping provide foundations that cannot be broken. I, myself, am a proud graduate of Barnwell High School (Go Warhorses!) and appreciate the path education has paved for my life.

Public education service runs deep in my family, with my grandfather Reed Swann being principal of Barnwell High School in the 70s and 80s and my late grandmother Hunter teaching her entire career. Many other members of my family have been public educators throughout South Carolina, including my uncle and my mother (who now works with me).

It's amazing to see what all is involved in providing a community an education system. Sometimes, before seeing things yourself, it's tough to realize what actually goes into making something a success. Seeing the many roles, responsibilities, and dedication needed to strive for a successful School District was eye opening. It left me with the feeling of wanting to simply say, thank you. 

To all who have been called to educate, thank you. To those who work behind the scenes, thank you. To those who lead, serve, and inspire,thank you. To those who mentor, volunteer, and coach...thank you! 

Keep up your great work!

​- Wil

02/01/2018