Hello CMSD Families and Friends,
February is a month when the nation is encouraged to reflect on the unique experiences of African Americans in the United States. It is a time dedicated to honoring both the struggles and triumphs of people whose ancestors were brought to this country as enslaved people.
It gives me great delight and pride to look around the Cleveland Metropolitan School District and see the large number of African Americans who have dedicated themselves to careers serving and educating all of Cleveland’s children. The tenure of at least one of these CMSD employees predates the time when a United States Federal Court declared in 1976 that the Cleveland school system had intentionally maintained segregated schools and was ordered to desegregate.
CMSD employee Jerome Pratt, Facility Manager, has been with the District for 51 years. That tenure makes him the longest-serving current CMSD employee. It’s fair to say he’s seen a lot of things.
Mr. Pratt started working for the District as a laborer before being promoted to assistant custodian, head custodian, and ultimately to his current leadership position.
“Jerome has excelled at every position he has worked in. He’s an excellent problem solver and a leader,” said Aaron Creel, Executive Director of Facility Services.
It is the dedicated service of people, like Mr. Pratt, that have helped blaze a trail for countless individuals, people who have spent time in our District as educators, scholars, and sometimes both.
At my November State of the Schools address, I recalled meeting with Khalil Anderson, an East Technical High School senior. Khalil, the school’s Student Council President, told me that after our introduction, he was inspired to consider a career in education.
That stated intention of a young student is among the greatest compliments any educator could ever receive. It reminds me that the meaningful work of a school employee is often its own reward. The interaction with Khalil also reminds me of the importance of young, Black scholars being exposed to role models who look like them and have a similar life experience.
I invite you to reflect on the sentiments of the CMSD students in the video below as they reflect on how Mary McLeod Bethune, one of the greatest educators in our nation’s history, has inspired them to also want to become educators.
Yours in Gratitude,
Dr. Warren Morgan