(PUEBLO, Colo.) — With the new school year also comes a new Superintendent for Pueblo School District 60 (D60).

Dr. Barbara Kimzey was welcomed to the district with a meet and greet Thursday afternoon, Aug. 1. Superintendent Kimzey shared her vision and goals for the school year, such as a focus on strong daily attendance through a social media campaign called “Be Present, Be Powerful.”

Kimzey said she hopes to build on past successes of the district, while creating new opportunities for the growth and development of the district and its students.

“So I was actually a kid who struggled in school,” said Kimzey. “I hated school. I didn’t read well, and I just told myself, I want to make school a place that’s way better for kids than it ever was for me.”

Her new position at D60 is one that she hopes can help her achieve that goal.

“I was so impressed with the community when I came here,” Kimzey added. “Just the welcoming atmosphere, in addition to feeling like this community is one where I can really grow enduring roots, and where I can truly make a difference for students, staff, and families.”

Among her plans for the district is a focus on the staff and finding a balance that will keep talented teachers in the district longer.

“Helping them find that balance between work and home, because now after the pandemic, we know that’s extremely important, we don’t need to burn everybody out,” said Kimzey. “And then really harnessing that power together and collaboratively, so that we can support each other when we’re faced with challenges.”

Classes for D60 begin Aug. 20.