Everything Counts!

Message from the Superintendent

I

When the great cathedrals were constructed in Europe, several of the builders carved intricate birds into the beams and rafters that would soon be covered by other materials. When asked why they took so much time to create something so detailed and beautiful that no one sees, the builders replied: “God sees.”

Character is built on what we do when we think no one is watching. I had the pleasure of meeting former Sandy Valley Superintendent (1978-1992) William “Gus” Dieringer through Lions Club, where we often worked side-by-side picking up trash on the side of the highway by the school. Just by observing him, I learned quickly that he was not only a strong leader, but a great family man and a good friend – a man of great character. I was very thankful for the road he paved before me, the example he set in front of me, and the legacy he left behind.

I am very sad to say that Gus passed away on May 13, 2023. It was a great honor to present a rose in his memory at the annual Superintendents Conference in Columbus. Over 400 superintendents attended, and Governor Mike Dewine spoke. During the memorial ceremony, each person brought up a white rose in memory of an educational leader that had died that year, and I was instantly reminded of our staff theme for this year: Everything Counts. When you wonder why you do the things you do, it’s because everything counts.

Each of these lives mattered, and everything they said or did had an impact on someone or something else, whether it be positive or otherwise. Everything they offered to this world, even when no one was watching, had significance. This helped me realize that we all have an obligation to make everything we do and say count toward something good.

As we head into this Thanksgiving season, let’s be mindful that everything counts. Abraham Joshua Heschel said, “At any given moment, it is not about where we are supposed to be. It’s about what work, what relationship, what decision we take. Every moment counts. Every decision counts. And if we look at our decisions in life as such, we will stop battling and start winning.”

I am so grateful for the many leaders that have gone before me, and I am also grateful for the opportunity to serve here with so many others (staff, parents, and volunteers) who are willing to make a difference. Everything counts.

I wish you all a happy and blessed holiday season.

Go Cards!

David Fischer, Superintendent