Dear POWER Zone Families, 

Summer break is wonderful, but so is the start of a new school year!  It’s my hope that summer for each of our POWER Zone families was exactly what you wished for, and that you’re feeling energized for the school year ahead.  On behalf of all PZ teachers and staff, we welcome you to the 2022-2023 school year!

My name is Theresa Ritz, and I’m honored to serve as your POWER Zone Superintendent.  This year is my 25th in District 49, where I’ve served as a teacher, dean, assistant principal, principal, PZ Executive Principal, and now as the PZ Superintendent.  Our current students bring me joy every day, and it also brings me great joy to run into former students and families out in our community and to learn about the paths they have taken in life.  I’m deeply committed to the people in the POWER Zone, and that’s why I’ve chosen to remain in D49 across the years.  I believe that our district truly is the best place to work, learn, and lead!  

Many people have been diligently planning and preparing for the school year ahead.  From getting the buildings and grounds ready to training on curricula, there’s always a great deal happening in the summer to ensure excellent learning environments for our students.  POWER Zone new teachers started on July 20th, and they attended a two-day Capturing Kids’ Hearts training, then from there they spent two days in New Teacher Orientation and preparing their classrooms.  All teachers returned on July 26th and have engaged in a variety of professional development opportunities.  POWER Zone teachers and staff are ready and eager to get the year started, and their positive energy is impressive!  Our schools are busy with Family Orientations, Back to School Nights, and first days– it’s all very exciting! 

One thing that you should expect on every POWER Zone campus is an intentional focus on relationships and positive culture.  In the PZ, we believe that respectful relationships are the foundation for everything else.  Student growth and achievement happen best in a positive environment where people genuinely care about one another.  I want to thank you, in advance, for partnering with us in prioritizing respectful relationships between all stakeholders in our zone.  It means so much for our students to observe the important adults in their lives interacting with kindness and compassion, even when solving problems.  When you experience outstanding examples of respectful relationships at PZ schools, I’d love to hear about it!  You can email me any time at tritz@d49.org. 

One way you can help your school is to spread the word that there are still positions available for employment in the POWER Zone.  We are looking for reliable, caring staff who want to make a difference.  If you are interested, please take a look at jobs posted on the district website, and you can also reach out to the front office at your campus and ask if they have open positions.  Serving as a guest teacher or staff substitute is also an excellent option for many.

I plan to reach out quarterly with an update for PZ parents and caregivers to share celebrations and areas for focus.  We will also reach out periodically with quick surveys to hear feedback and gain insight into a variety of topics.  In the meantime, if there’s anything you need as we get this year started, please ask.  Staff across the POWER Zone are focused on service, and we are glad to help. 

Sincerely,

Theresa Ritz

POWER Zone Superintendent