My name is Thomas Howard, Jr. and I am writing this letter as a personal introduction after my recent appointment as Executive Director of Boys & Girls Harbor.

I welcome this opportunity and look forward to working alongside each of you in the pursuit of educational excellence for Harbor children.

Like so many of you, my family is also preparing for the first day of the new school year. My son is 11 years old and this is his first year in middle school. Of course, I am a little nervous. This will be a milestone for him; he is stepping into the next phase of his academic and social development. I expect nothing short of greatness from his school. This is something else you and I have in common.

Besides being a father, I am a career educator. My philosophy is that educational programs must provide children with a quality learning experience that allows them to compete and succeed in the 21st century. I believe that educational programs, no matter what type, should help children find their hidden talents and develop the intellectual skills required for personal and career success. With your help, I intend to work hard to achieve that for all students at Boys & Girls Harbor.

As the newest member of the Harbor family, I am proud to join an organization with a rich history of promoting high academic and personal standards. The Harbor has seven distinguished educational programs that promote excellence across the board. No matter which program(s) your child is connected to, I share your commitment to inspire, challenge and engage them in a vibrant journey toward educational success.

Bill Cosby said, “In order to succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure.” As a teacher, and as a parent, this resonates with me.

We have a lot of work to do, so please partner with me on the first day of school, and beyond, to promote the growth and achievement of all Harbor children.

Our children deserve nothing short of educational excellence.
Sincerely,

Thomas Howard, Jr., Ed.D
Executive Director