To my Board District 4 constituents, L.A. Unified community, and beyond:
 
As we take the next few days to spend time with family, friends, and loved ones, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to be part of this district—to change lives through the power of public education. I am thankful to work every day for the kids that we serve. I thank all who have welcomed me through your school gates and into your classrooms, and I look forward to continuing these school visits when classes resume next week.
 
At this time of year—when I reflect on all I am thankful for—our teachers, school site leadership, and all employees who contribute to school success are certainly at the top of the list. Nothing I have ever done has been as hard as teaching and I just want to express immense gratitude to everyone serving kids day-in and day-out.
 
When thinking back to the first Thanksgiving, we’re also reminded of the diverse heritages of all who have come, contributed, and enriched our nation’s communities. While it was President Washington who issued the first Thanksgiving proclamation in 1789, it was President Lincoln, in the midst of our Civil War, who declared it a national holiday. At a time of bitter division, Lincoln asked that we take care of the most vulnerable among us and “heal the wounds of the nation.”
 
I encourage us all to heed Lincoln’s call and find a way to practice not only thankfulness, but also giving. Our office was grateful for the opportunity to donate turkeys to some L.A. Unified families this Thanksgiving. In the spirit of the season, let us never take the comfort of a roof over our head, a hot meal, and the warmth of our families and friends for granted.
 
With gratitude,
Nick