Superintendent Says Goodbye to Stratford Schools

Dear Chairman Forrester:

Please accept this notice of my intention to end my employment with the Stratford Public Schools as its superintendent on January 1, 2013.

While my current contract does not end until June 30, 2013, I hope you will understand my desire to commence my retirement sooner. Although I was born and raised in Connecticut, I have never enjoyed its winters. Now that I have a home in Mexico, I long to spend next winter and future winters there.

I thank this Board and prior Boards for the privilege of working in this district for what will be a full nine (9) years.

During that time, together we have re-invigorated Stratford High School, implemented full day kindergarten for all those who want it, implemented an elementary world language program from kindergarten through grade six, built a solid technolological foundation, revised curricula, updated textbooks, and focused on an equitable distribution of resources throughout the district.

We have enjoyed statewide acclaim for award winning schools and staff; and can take particular pride in our efforts to close the achievement gap.

Further, despite the years of an ailing economy, the quality of education has not suffered due in large part to the financial sacrifices of our administrators, teachers, staff, parents and community at large.

Departing on January 1, 2013, will allow me to open schools for the 2012/13 school year, participate in the negotiation of the next teacher contract, set the stage for the 2013/14 budget process, and help with succession planning.

I thank you, this Board, and prior Boards for your encouragement and support over the years. We have accomplished much which has benefitted the lives of thousands of students and their families.

I wish the Board and the Stratford Public Schools continued success.

Sincerely,

Irene Cornish

Editor's note: Stratford Patch will be reaching out to Cornish this week for a full-length profile.