August 6, 2026

Dear OCSU Students, Families, Staff, Board Members, and Community Partners,

As the first week of August arrives, our thoughts naturally begin turning toward a new school year and the opportunities it brings. Across Orleans Central Supervisory Union, classrooms are being prepared, schedules are being finalized, and students and families are preparing for the excitement of the new beginning that each first day of school brings. While our roles may be different, we are all united in OCSU by a common vision: All of our students will have pathways that lead them to success throughout their lives. Our vision is our promise to our students, and guides the decisions we make, the relationships we build, and the way we work together every day to help each student in OCSU learn, grow, and thrive.

As we begin another school year together, I am filled with optimism because I have seen what is possible when an entire community comes together on behalf of its children. One of OCSU's greatest strengths is not found within the walls of any one school or in any single program or initiative. It is found in the connections between our schools, our families, our communities, and every person who believes in the potential of our students. When those connections are strong, students experience support, opportunity, encouragement, and a true sense of belonging. These relationships are the foundation of our shared success and inspire all of us to do our best for our students.

The progress we made last year gives me, and I hope you as well, confidence in what we can accomplish together. This year, we will continue strengthening our teaching and learning systems, ensuring all students are learning at high levels, fostering a strong sense of belonging, and ensuring every student has the support they need to thrive. As the year begins, you will also hear more about several important changes required by Vermont law, including updated attendance procedures that emphasize prevention, early intervention, and partnership with families, as well as revised student cell phone expectations designed to support safe, focused learning environments.

As we prepare to begin a new school year, I want to sincerely thank each member of our OCSU community for your ongoing efforts and the vital role you will play in making this a remarkable year.

To our students, thank you in advance for bringing your curiosity, creativity, perseverance, and unique gifts to our classrooms. You each have something meaningful to contribute, and we cannot wait to see you learn, grow, and discover all that is possible.

To our families and caregivers, thank you for the trust you place in us and for the partnership you bring to our schools. Your encouragement, support, and involvement make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students, and we are grateful to work alongside you throughout the year.

To our entire dedicated staff, thank you for the expertise, compassion, and commitment you will bring to each day. The relationships you build, the encouragement you offer, and the opportunities you create have a lasting impact on the lives of our students. Together, you help ensure that every child is known, valued, challenged, and supported.

Together, each of us plays an important role in helping students discover the pathways that will shape their futures. Those pathways are built not through the work of one individual, but through an entire community united by a shared commitment to every child. That is how we build pathways to success. That is how futures are shaped. And that is both our responsibility and our privilege.

I am so excited to begin my second year in OCSU serving as your superintendent. Enjoy these last few weeks of summer, and I look forward to welcoming everyone back for another year of learning, growth, and opportunity very soon!

Take good care,

Jackie Ramsay-Tolman

Superintendent, Orleans Central Supervisory Union