Dr. Brian Merritt Named NCSS Self-Paced VIP Coordinator
Posted on 07/08/2021
It is with great pride and enthusiasm, I write this letter of introduction to you as the newly appointed Virtual Learning Coordinator for Newton County School System. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead a newly developed program from its beginning stages in a school district with such a rich tradition of education. I have worked with various students from kindergarten through twelfth grade via a traditional and alternative setting. My most recent administrative experience was in Henry County Schools, where I served as an Assistant Principal in a K-12 virtual school setting. I am excited and eager to bring my skills as an educational leader to Newton County School System and work with you as a partner in education to ensure your child's success.
My educational philosophy centers on the belief that all students can learn at or above their present grade level. Even though all students are capable of learning, all students do not have the same learning styles or the same intrinsic motivation to learn. As an educational leader, it is my essential duty to ensure there is equity and equality in every classroom (albeit virtual or traditional) so that all students can succeed. Regardless of the educational setting all students deserve equity. Nevertheless, expectations will not be lowered for outcomes.
Moreover, it is essential to be a life-long learner and to strive for improvement continually. I believe schools should reflect the aspirations of the community. This pandemic has shown us that students can thrive, and some prefer to be in non-traditional learning environments. I believe in creating an atmosphere with all stakeholders to ensure that the community has a voice and that promotes connectivity. As an educational leader, it is crucial to lead with your own voice. My actions will always align with the school district's organizational beliefs. As an educational leader, I am not afraid to bring the community into our work. I believe that every child, family, and community deserves my accelerated sense of urgency.
Lastly, I believe in laying the foundation of building and sustaining a positive culture. This begins with hiring around the district's core beliefs as a culture and holding employees accountable for these ever-important beliefs. All stakeholders will have clarity of my overall vision and purpose for this program. When it comes to education, the process is often the product, and I will continue to learn as I lead.
Brian H. Merritt, Ed.D.