Greeting Wakulla County,
As a former soldier who traveled the world, and an educator who has traveled the state and country observing numerous education systems, I can unequivocally state that we are blessed to raise our children in Wakulla County. While other countries and communities may offer public educational services, there are only a handful of places where the schools are so greatly supported and beloved as in Wakulla County. Perhaps it is because for so many of us, it is these schools who made us who we are. As a new Superintendent, I am reminded every day, how fortunate I am to be at the helm of an institution that was already performing at a high level before I took over. As I visit classrooms and attend school programs, the true hallmark of our success is apparent: our staff. From bus drivers, to paraprofessionals, secretaries to custodians, administrators and of course teachers, there is a clear vision of why we get up in the morning—the children of this community. The drive and resolve that so many display daily is truly a testament to greatness.
On August 11th, the doors reopen for the 2025-2026 school year. We know that throughout the year there will be bumps along the way and I will not shy down from them, we will embrace it, learn from it, and be stronger because of it. We are coming off an exceptional year of student achievement, but no school feels they have reached their pinnacle. All schools spent the summer planning how to make improvements in our services to students and families. Over the next year, you will see improvements in the areas of technology, facilities, communication, safety, and overall culture and climate. While other districts around the state and country may be communicating a situation of despair, please know, in Wakulla County our mindset is completely different. We are eager to embrace the possibilities of growth and are confident in our ability to continuously improve.
Through the leadership of the School Board and district staff, we are fortunate to be in a stable financial position and are looking ahead at the opportunities we have to move our district closer to the absolute top of all districts in this state. However, make no mistake, we deeply understand that success is not always defined by metrics. On July 31st, we welcomed back teachers and staff, not only with speeches by adults, but with a pep rally led by students. This intentional change was to re-center our purpose, a symbiotic school community. The beauty of our students cheering for the teachers who have assisted in their growth was on full display, and the pride on the teachers’ faces knowing they have played a part in that growth was inspirational.
The first days of school will be long. We know the traffic will have to adjust and buses will be late, but it will all be worth it. After the long summer, once again our community will feel like it is supposed to, alive with the wonderful experiences our teachers and schools provide to our youth daily.
As always, thank you for your eternal support of the Wakulla County School District, together we have the responsibility to protect this for another generation of students.
God Bless,
Rick Myhre
Superintendent of Wakulla County Schools