Dear friends,
I am writing to share my thanks with you all as I prepare to move on from Team Read as we move into summer. As you can imagine, this was not an easy decision, but I feel the time is right, both for myself and the organization.
I came to Team Read six years ago, knowing I was about to embark on a great adventure with a well-loved and highly regarded organization. I remember very clearly the day I first visited Lowell Elementary and met Brian, one of our outstanding Team Read coaches, who shared with me all the growth and transformation he saw in his reader since they started working together, as well as in himself that year. Every day since, I’ve had the privilege of seeing this same impact in action – readers and teens working together, in community, supporting each other and thriving. Of course, I couldn’t have predicted the many changes and challenges we also face nearly every day, but I’m intensely proud of how we persevere and continue to deliver quality programs to dozens of schools across four school districts. Our readers and coaches’ potential and possibilities sit deep in my heart. I know I’ll support this work for many years to come.
The staff team I’m leaving in place is full of passionate and talented individuals, and I am confident their great work will continue, as will the leadership of our dynamic and committed Board. I plan to take some time to rest and reflect, and though I’m moving from the field to the bleachers, I’ll remain a steadfast supporter of Team Read. I look forward to taking some time over the next few months to give my heartfelt thanks to program partners and supporters and close out the year well.
I’m incredibly grateful for the support I’ve received from all of you: reading coaches, families, school partners, volunteers, donors, and supporters of all kinds. Your contributions and commitment as part of the Team Read team have made my success possible. I’m forever proud to be a part of Team Read.
Thank you all!
Melissa Pailthorp, Executive Director