Dear Westminster Community,

“Teachers change lives!”

That is the theme of Teacher Appreciation Week which begins on Monday, May 8, and will be celebrated across the nation.

It seems all of us can recall at least one teacher who impacted our lives by opening our eyes to new possibilities or helping us to see things in a different way.

This edition of What’s Up WPS has two video profiles of our Westminster Elks Teachers of the Year and we will present the third video in our next edition. Last month, the Board of Education recognized Jenna Lindenmuth, Chris Tidd, and Carisa Olmos and it was moving to see so many of their fellow teachers in the audience to cheer them on and let them know how valued they really are.

As I have said many times, teaching is a noble profession. Over the course of my career in education I have seen so many examples of teachers going “above and beyond” to connect with a student and as this year’s theme says, change lives.

Because our teachers are so valued and we realize the importance of attracting and retaining talented teachers, Westminster Public Schools has, for many years, offered the highest starting teacher salary in the state of Colorado. This year we were able to cross the $60,000 a year threshold which is a significant accomplishment. 

As the saying goes, “talk is cheap” – not in WPS where we match our words with actions.

One final thought. In this era of technology and the internet, it is easier than ever to reconnect with people from your past. If you have a moment, I encourage you to track down that teacher from the past who made a difference in your life and send them a note of thanks.

Kindest regards, 

Dr. Pamela Swanson

Superintendent of Schools