October 30, 2023
Robert Lukens
Superintendent of Schools
Harvey Public School District
210 North St. E
Harvey, ND 58341
Dear Harvey Public School Staff, Community, and Surrounding Area,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. As we weathered our first winter storm of the season, I reflected on the incredible strength and resilience of our community here in Wells County, North Dakota. It is with immense gratitude and appreciation that I write to express my thanks to every one of you who played a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and well-being of our students and staff during these challenging conditions.
Our school district comprises not only dedicated educators and bright students but also an extended family that includes parents, public works personnel, city officials, and numerous other unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make our educational mission possible. Together, we overcame the unpredictable nature of Mother Nature’s wrath, and your unwavering support has genuinely warmed my heart.
To our incredible staff, your dedication and commitment to our student’s education shone brightly during these trying times. Your adaptability, quick thinking, and genuine concern for the well-being of our students did not go unnoticed. Thank you for going above and beyond.
To our city officials, public works teams, and first responders, your prompt and efficient actions in maintaining safe roads, sidewalks, and essential services are deeply appreciated. Your dedication to ensuring our schools could operate and our students could travel safely did not go unnoticed. Your work exemplifies the essence of community spirit.
To the parents of our students, your patience and understanding as we navigated the changing conditions were invaluable. Your support and trust in our decision-making process were heartening, and it reaffirmed the strong partnership between our schools and the families we serve.
Last but not least, to every community member, business owner, and volunteer who pitched in during the winter storm, thank you for embodying the spirit of community and showing that we truly are in this together—your contributions, whether big or small, made a significant impact.
As a superintendent, the decisions made during weather emergencies are among the most challenging I face. However, I am eternally grateful to be in a community as remarkable as Wells County, ND. Your support and collaboration make my job not only more manageable but also incredibly rewarding.
In closing, I look forward to continuing our shared mission of educating the future and making a positive impact on our society through our schools. The strength of our community and the support we provide one another is a testament to our collective resilience and determination.
Thank you again for your unwavering support during the recent winter storm. Let’s move forward with confidence and hope, knowing that together, we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way.
With sincere gratitude and warm regards,
Robert Lukens
Superintendent of Schools
Harvey Public School District