The 2025-26 school year officially began today with Independence Local Schools’ annual staff convocation, bringing together teachers, staff, administrators, and board members for a morning of inspiration, reflection, and renewed commitment to students.
The event included a warm welcome from Board of Education President Katie Hill, who expressed gratitude to staff for their dedication and passion. She was joined by the district’s union presidents, who shared messages of encouragement for the year ahead. Following these remarks, district administrators introduced and welcomed all new staff members, celebrating the growth and talent joining Independence Local Schools this fall.
Superintendent Kelli Cogan addressed the staff with a message centered on cultivating the district’s legacy while embracing the exciting opportunities and challenges ahead.
“This year, we continue the work of cultivating our legacy,” said Cogan. “At the heart of everything we do is our focus on students—knowing them, understanding their strengths, and designing engaging, challenging, and motivating learning experiences.”
A significant portion of her remarks highlighted the district’s upcoming bond issue in May 2026. Cogan explained the urgent need for modern learning spaces, noting that both the Middle School and Primary School buildings no longer meet the needs of today’s students and staff.
“I had someone remind me that when our Primary School was built, President Eisenhower was in office,” Cogan said. “That fact alone shows why we need spaces that are modern and designed for the way students learn today—not the way they learned 50 years ago.”
She emphasized that the issue is not just about buildings, but about investing in the future of children and the community.
“We are an amazing district with incredible staff, students, and families,” said Cogan. “Together, we will keep cultivating a legacy of excellence—one lesson, one win, and one success story at a time.”
The convocation concluded with an energizing keynote address from Kim Campbell, a nationally recognized educator and speaker. Campbell emphasized that while academic rigor is important, relationships remain at the heart of great schools. “We have always known that building strong, positive relationships with our students is the foundation of every classroom. Relationships are more important than ever. We also know that the stronger relationships we have with each other as colleagues influence the success of our students,” she said. She encouraged staff to “join me as we learn practical ways to connect with all members of our school community.”
Her message, blending humor and inspiration with practical strategies, left staff energized and focused on the power of human connection as the district begins a new year. “Relationships matter!”
The morning set a positive tone for the school year, leaving staff energized and united in their shared mission to make the 2025-26 year the district’s best yet.