EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S WELCOME

Dear Radford Community, 

  I am humbled and grateful to the Radford School Board of Directors for placing their trust in me to lead Radford as Executive Director. As we reflect on the past year, I am thankful to our Board and proud of all the work we’ve done together to support educators and students. I remain committed to strengthening our path toward excellence and am equally excited to work with our administration, faculty, and staff as we work collectively on a common foundation for propelling Radford academically for the benefit of our students. I am also thankful for the work of those who have served in this leadership role before me, from Dr. Templin onward. Their vision of excellence serves as a guidepost moving forward. 

   I joined Radford over two years ago after meeting with students. I believe in each students’ dignity and aspirations. I am passionate about being an educator – listening to and learning from students and their families, celebrating their successes as well as carving out a sacred space of grace and gratitude even in the most challenging of moments. I have always been a believer that our students are the authors of their own narrative, and their stories have the power lift and motivate us. It is incumbent upon us to support them in finding the right tools so their voices can resonate in an ever-complex and changing world. 

  Radford is on a strong path of growth. We are forging ahead to meet Board expectations as set forth in the CoSpero Strategic Plan. We will commit ourselves to build upon best practices and policies in education to ensure that asset-building is the norm and not the exception. We embrace the new strategic plan to lead us through the next phase of growth and positive impact. Collectively, we will address and overcome any educational obstacles that may arise as we work to uphold Radford’s mission, which will allow us to support of our most valuable asset- our students. 

   I am dedicated to give my personal best to Radford School and its students. I remain committed to our mission and our vision for student success through a process with integrity, intention, and a focus on equity. Radford is a conglomerate of many voices. Radford is about our mission and values, our students and their families, and the positive ripple we want to see in the world. As such, together will allow our educational standard to light our path. Each of us has an opportunity to model our school motto, “Disco Ut Servem.” 

  We have had many successes in these past 115 years, but just like the families we serve, we, too, must strive for continuous improvement. We look forward to finding new ways to engage existing and new partners in advancing learning. 

With gratitude, 

Mr. Manuel Castruita 

Our Administrative Staff