As most of you know by now, I am leaving SAYL next week due to a family matter. As I look back over the last year I am proud of the transformation I have witnessed at SAYL. When I came on board I distinctly remember hearing every day from the SAYL staff, “Do you have internet?” That is not what you want to hear when you are trying to run a business! Today, the infrastructure is in place and the Reading Buddy Program is solid. Performance measures are established with strong, positive outcomes. Also, the community is waking up to the reality that if we don’t educate our kids our city’s future is in jeopardy. Now, all we need is the financial resources to meet the need of 5,600 children who are failing the 3rd grade literacy test every year in Bexar County. We’re ready to go San Antonio! Just give us the green light! I often refer to SAYL as “the little engine that could.” This organization performs a heroic task with limited resources but it does this with amazing efficiency because of fabulous, passionate volunteers and dedicated staff. I continue to be humbled by the people I am surrounded by on a daily basis. As I look to SAYL’s future I see growth across the county. I see school districts working collaboratively with SAYL to continue the fight to move the needle on 3rd grade literacy. I see businesses, faith-based organizations, and government entities partnering to eradicate illiteracy. I see a bright, robust future for this city I love. I see a bright tomorrow for our children!

Thank you for your support and guidance and thank you for your dedication to this most vital cause!