It is wonderful to be back at Aspen View Academy (AVA) after my four-month absence. I want to sincerely thank everyone for the warm welcome I’ve received. This time away has only reinforced how much I truly enjoy being a part of this incredible community, and I am committed to serving here for as long as possible.
During my time away, I've been so impressed by the continued growth and development of our students. They are becoming better leaders each day, and it’s a privilege to witness. The respect and love I experienced from my very first day as your School Resource Officer has not only remained but has deepened. My sincere gratitude goes to our students, staff, parents, grandparents, and all community members who collectively make AVA such a special place.
Our community thrives because of the positive interactions that happen within our classrooms and extend into our homes. I am fortunate to see firsthand the positive influence each teacher, support staff member, paraprofessional, and Principal has on our students. We know that our students navigate the challenges of life, and it is our collective responsibility as adults to instill the values that will guide them to success.
As we continue our work together at Aspen View Academy, it's important to remember the foundational principles that guide us. Our school is dedicated to fostering academic excellence, not just for the sake of knowledge, but to cultivate critical thinkers, responsible citizens, strong community members, and future leaders. This commitment deeply resonates with my role as your School Resource Officer and as a member of the Police Department. Our vision within the department is to serve people one-by-one so that, together, we can create environments that are safe and secure, and where people can thrive.
You can see how these ideals naturally align. By nurturing students into becoming thoughtful, responsible, and engaged members of our community, we are actively building the very environment of safety and security that is central to my work. My focus on ensuring the immediate safety and well-being of our students and staff is not separate from the school's mission; it is the bedrock upon which that mission can flourish. When our students feel safe and supported, they are better equipped to become the critical thinkers and responsible citizens we strive to develop.
Thank you again for your ongoing support and partnership. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. Safety is a shared responsibility, and speaking up is the first step towards ensuring a safe and peaceful environment for everyone.
Marcos Whyte
AVA School Resource Officer