I hope that you and your family are enjoying those last few beach days but feel, as I do, a sense of excitement as we turn to the new school year ahead. Before we launch into what promises to be an exciting year, I wanted to update the community on a few changes on the Granby Board of Education.
Over the summer, Board Chair Sarah Thrall retired from her post on the board because she and her family have relocated. As vice chair, I had a front row seat to the leadership that Sarah provided. From building projects and budgets to student-centered programming, Sarah was there; present and committed to ensuring Granby schools remained strong. Sarah guided the board through the selection of a new superintendent and leaves the district in a strong position to advance the mission and vision of the Granby Public Schools.
What I admired most about Sarah’s leadership was her level of commitment to our schools while never losing sight of the individuals throughout the district who make our schools great. Personally, I cannot thank Sarah enough for her dedication and professionalism as chair; I wish her and her family the best.
As a result of Sarah’s departure, we welcome a new face to the Granby Board of Education. Katharine Leenders has been selected to fill Sarah’s vacancy. While Katharine is new to the board, she is not a stranger to Granby or education. Katharine grew up in the Farmington Valley and chose Granby to raise and educate her children.
Professionally, Katharine is a social worker who has spent her career working with families to ensure the welfare of children to include partnering with school districts throughout the state. We are fortunate to have Katharine’s experience and expertise, and we warmly welcome her to the Board of Education.
Editor’s Note: Learn more about Katharine Leenders here.