Shawnee Public Schools

As we approach Thanksgiving, I want to take a moment to share my heartfelt gratitude for each of you. This is my first year serving as Superintendent of Shawnee Public Schools, and from day one, our community has shown me an overwhelming sense of welcome. Your kindness and commitment to our students have made this transition both meaningful and exciting.

This season of thanks also gives us time to reflect on the exciting progress happening across our district. Renovations continue to move forward, and we were proud to cut the ribbons on three beautifully updated elementary schools and a new outdoor classroom at Jim Thorpe Academy, and completed the resurfacing projects at Shawnee High School and Shawnee Middle School. We’ve also broken ground on our new tennis facility, and construction is underway on new awnings that will protect our elementary students from the elements.

We are eagerly anticipating the completion of the Sequoyah Elementary parking lot and the progress being made on the new press box at Jim Thorpe Stadium. The agriculture and Stucker facility plans are also moving ahead as bids come in and design details take shape. These projects represent more than buildings; they represent our commitment to providing safe, dynamic, and inspiring spaces for learning.

In the classroom, our students continue to impress us daily. From strong early literacy growth driven by tools like Amira and small-group interventions, to students across all grade levels achieving new milestones in math, reading, science, and the arts, we are seeing tremendous academic progress this year. Teachers are integrating new curriculum resources, students are engaging more deeply in hands-on learning experiences, and families are playing an important role in supporting learning at home. We are proud of the momentum building in every school.

This month, we also celebrated our site Teachers of the Year. Their dedication reflects what I see every day across our district: exceptional educators and staff who go above and beyond for our students. We are truly grateful for their commitment and passion.

And finally, it was a joy to gather with hundreds of you at our 'Pack the Stadium' event to celebrate school spirit and honor the many accomplishments of our students, academically, artistically, and athletically. Moments like these showcase the pride that makes Shawnee such a special place.

As we head into Thanksgiving break, I want to express my appreciation for your continued support of our schools. I am grateful to work alongside you, and I look forward to all we will accomplish together.

Wishing you and your family a warm, restful, and happy Thanksgiving.

With sincere appreciation,
Dr. Jason James
Superintendent
Shawnee Public Schools