Three days after Somers’ final board meeting as D-38’s executive leader, the district released a formal farewell message through its Youtube channel from the exiting superintendent.

The farewell video message showed Somers reflecting on the past five years of D-38 as he was a part of it.

“When I first arrived in 2019, I knew it was going to be a challenge,” but it was a challenge I embraced wholeheartedly,” Somers said. “Together we navigated through changes and embraced a vision for the future while honoring our past achievements.”

From his first day, Somers said he encountered a team of dedicated educators and support staff of whom worked tirelessly to ensure the success of district students, he said. As for the students, he recognized the achievements which never cease to be amazing, Somers said.

“Watching them grow and flourish has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my time here,” he said.

Somers went on to share how grateful he was for the support of D-38 parents and families along with the key community partnerships which contribute to the district’s and its students’ excellence. While noting the district has seen its share of highs and lows during his five years as superintendent, he took a moment to note the district’s effort to navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Yet, despite those obstacles, we found innovative ways to connect with our students and ensure their continued growth and success,” Somers said. “Our efforts during this time not only strengthened our community but also built a foundation of trust and resilience that will serve us well into the future.

“We’ve defined what it means to be part of District 38.”

D-38’s core values of integrity, respect, growth, excellence and connection along with its strategic plan to serve as guiding principles for everything the district does, Somers said. The district’s vision of elevating every student, every day continues to drive D-38 forward, he said.

Somers said he prepares to depart from the district with a profound sense of gratitude.

“The journey has been an incredible part of my career in education and I’m proud of the work we’ve accomplished together,” he said. “While my time here is ending, I am confident that District 38 will continue to thrive under new leadership and a dynamic team.

“To each and every one of you, I want to express my deepest appreciation. Your dedication, passion and commitment to our students have made District 38 truly special.”

As he embarks on the next chapter of his own journey, Somers said he will take the lessons he has learned over the past 5 years, as well as the memories from it. More importantly, he will hold his relationships close, he said.

“Thank you for all your hard work, your unwavering support and your belief in the power of education,” Somers said. “The impact you’ve had on District 38 and its students will endure for years to come.”