Dear Big Springs Staff, Parents, and School Community,
I hope you are all enjoying your summer break. It is with mixed emotions that I share this news: I will not be returning as the principal of Big Springs Elementary this coming school year. I have been offered and accepted the position of Executive Director of Human Resources in our District. While I am excited about this new opportunity, I am also deeply saddened to be leaving this wonderful school community.
Reflecting on the past four years, we’ve navigated significant challenges and achieved remarkable milestones together. From our first virtual interactions due to COVID, adapting to virtual learning, and undergoing a major school renovation, we have faced and overcome many obstacles. These have been some of the most rewarding years of my career, and I couldn’t have asked for a better group of parents, students, and staff to share this journey with.
Big Springs is a special place, and I am glad my principal journey landed here with such supportive parents, students, and staff. Writing this letter and making this announcement has been hard because of the love and care I have for the Big Springs community. I will miss the daily interactions with our amazing students, watching them grow and succeed, and being a part of their educational journey. I will miss the incredible support from parents and the joy of working alongside such a dedicated and talented staff.
When I say that I am the “proud principal of Big Springs Elementary,” I mean every word. The achievements we’ve accomplished together fill me with pride, and I am confident that you will continue to excel. Thank you for trusting me and allowing me to lead you over the past four years. I will always cherish the memories we’ve created and the milestones we’ve celebrated. Your support and dedication have been crucial to our success, and I am certain you will continue to accomplish great things.
RISD is beginning the process of identifying the next principal of Big Springs Elementary, which will include an opportunity for parent and staff input to create a principal profile that will be used in the selection process. More information about this process will be coming soon from Berkner Learning Community Area Superintendent, Lorie Squalls.
It has truly been an honor to serve our wonderful Big Springs Elementary community. Though I will not be at Big Springs in the fall, I will remain in the district. And don’t forget to save my spot at the Annual Dunk Tank for the “Batty for Blaze” Carnival! Once a BSE Bobcat, always a BSE Bobcat.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Vince Dawes
