Love this time of year. The beginning of school always reminds me of a fresh new start. In education, we have the ability to pick up where we left off and the ability to start new. My reflection over the last couple weeks has been one of community.
"We are a community school."
Over the last year, I have had the opportunity to watch a school and community come together to help raise the children of Pea Ridge. The community has been so generous, gracious and giving to help meet the needs of students who need a hand-up. I'm proud of the fact every student in Pea Ridge this year came to school with school supplies and ready to begin their school journey. Every student didn't have to look at others wondering why they didn't have paper, pencils, notebooks, markers and folders. Every student's fresh start this year began on an even playing field.
A fresh start for teachers this year was focusing on relationships. We dedicated a day long in-service to Understanding Poverty, Bright Futures Pea Ridge and community involvement. It's important for all stakeholders to understand our community is willing to be involved by helping raise the children of Pea Ridge. Superintendent Dr. C.J. Huff of Joplin Schools, Alternative Education Director Josh Johnson and Carrie Caruthers of Kansas City, Mo., highlighted how important our teachers are and how building those relationships impacted their lives. This fresh start for teachers was eye opening, engaging and hopefully impactful as they move forward this school year.
Finally, my last reflection. Over the last month our campus at 781 West Pickens looks like downtown Los Angeles. With heavy car traffic and foot traffic comes concerns with facilities, safety and security. We are growing and with growing pains comes inconveniences. The district is currently at 1,840 students and over 1,400 are located on this 20-acre parcel of land. Football games, volleyball games, pee wee practices, and other after school activities are abundant. It's exciting to see our beautiful stadium full, band and cheerleaders performing wonderfully, our concession stands busy, our Blackhawk apparel worn so proudly.
With all that said, it's important to realize we have been given an incredible gift. Let's make sure we all take care of, respect and hold everyone accountable for our great school, great facilities and great community school facilities. Remember, no animals, no horseplay on school facilities.
Editorial on 09/17/2014