Middle School Families,
As we wind down this school year over the next two days, I wanted to take a few moments to personally thank you for the gift of the past six years that I have been at Providence Academy. It has been my joy to serve you as middle school director here at PA, and I cannot tell you how grateful I am that PA came into my life when I moved back from Maryland six years ago. In the past six years, I have taught classes in 7th grade history, 6th grade religion, and 7th grade health, in addition to many other classes that I made a guest appearance as a last-minute substitute teacher. Four years ago, I even spent a class period directing the band- which students still remind me about to this day! I have also had the opportunity to coach three middle school girls’ basketball teams, watching our lions grow in skill development and teamwork right before my eyes. I have served as a chaperone on the Wolf Ridge and Washington DC field trips, attended numerous field trips and retreats, and I have been to countless middle school events on campus over the past six years. I truly enjoyed working with your children each day at school, and will miss them as I take on a new job next year.
My primary job as Middle School Director is to work with our team of teachers on providing the best possible education for your kids. Working with the middle school teachers has been very rewarding, and I can assure you that your kids are in excellent hands each day when you drop them off for school! The professionalism, education, and experience that they bring to their classrooms is outstanding, and I can tell you that one of my greatest joys on the job has been observing classes to see the wonderful things that happen in the classroom each day. Moreover, they have a deep love for Jesus and a commitment to their faith that frames all of the conversations about teaching practices that we discuss. Additionally, our middle school support team is exceptional at anticipating and responding to the needs of our students each day, giving them the best possible care. The faculty and staff here at PA work tirelessly to give their best to the students here at PA, and have especially extended themselves in countless ways over the past three years as we navigated teaching during and after the Covid-19 years. They are certainly a treasure to our school and I look forward to continuing in their friendship.
As I move to a new job in West Saint Paul over the summer, please know that I will be cheering on our Lions from the other side of the Twin Cities, and I am sure you will see me at some sporting events, plays, and other PA events. PA has been a second home to me for the past six years, and that home has nourished my faith, provided me with plenty of spirit wear, and kept me well-fed! You will be in my prayers, and I know that you will be in good hands with Mrs. Claypool as middle school director next year.
God bless,
Kyle Rickbeil