In his last state of the school report, Providence ES principal Dan Phillips joined Daniels Run ES principal Chris Smith to present their annual update to the City of Fairfax School Board. Phillips will join Fairfax City Schools to become the Assistant to the Superintendent on March 15.
Both Phillips and Smith discussed efforts to increase support for students’ academic and emotional needs. The two principals outlined language arts and math goals and discussed how they are using federal, state, and city funds to help achieve those goals. Using Elementary and Secondary School Relief Funds (ESSER), the principals are increasing staffing, providing before and after school interventions, and purchasing additional supplies to help reach every student.
The principals were also thankful to the City of Fairfax for its support for students. “Providence ES wouldn’t be the school we are without the support of the City of Fairfax,” said Phillips. Highlighting programs such as the science labs at both schools, additional resources for teachers, and advocating for advanced academic programs, the principals updated the board on how it spends city funding. Smith explained how city funding helps his recruiting and retention efforts saying, “It is great to tell teachers I am able to help them get what they need to be successful, knowing I am a city school.”
The principals were also complimentary of their school staff, parents, and community. “Really the teachers, counselors, support staff in our buildings that do the hard work every day along with the partnership with our parents and community that makes our school successful,” said Smith.
Phillips ended the presentation with gratitude to the “whole Providence school community who drop off their kids every day with hope in their eyes and smiles on their faces. It has been an incredible honor and I have never loved a job more than I have loved this one.”