Superintentdent's Monday Message
February 27 , 2023
September 11, 2023
Dear Southwest ISD Employees,
I hope you all had an enjoyable weekend. It was a fantastic weekend for football enthusiasts like me, with all my favorite teams in action: Southwest High School on Thursday, Southwest Legacy on Friday, the UTSA Roadrunners on Saturday, and the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday.
On Friday night, I had the privilege of attending the Southwest Legacy football game, and as the superintendent, I couldn't have been prouder. My pride and appreciation go beyond the final score, which unfortunately didn't favor us. What truly impressed me were the events that unfolded that night.
After the game, I had the opportunity to bring some snacks to the football players. I joined them in the area where they entered the locker room, and Coach Chris Cooper was there with me. I asked him about the game, given the score, and his immediate response resonated deeply with me. Coach Cooper stated that it wasn't the fault of our students, who he described as amazing. He went on to emphasize that the outcome was not a result of the other team being stronger, better, more athletic, or talented; it was, in his view, a coaching issue. I was profoundly impressed because, in moments like these, it's common for people to deflect blame or point fingers. However, Coach Cooper displayed exceptional leadership by taking responsibility and immediately discussing what would be done differently to overcome the challenges.
While I may not be a football expert, what I truly admire and appreciate is Coach Cooper's sincere approach of refraining from blame and focusing on solutions. As I stood there with him, I witnessed how he addressed each student by name, offering words of inspiration. The students were visibly upset, their passion evident through their tears as they returned to the locker room. Yet, each student was greeted by Coach Cooper with personal encouragement, and he reassured them of his steadfast belief and love for them. These are the moments that make me proud. While winning is important, I value even more the fact that our students are nurtured in a loving and caring manner and are provided with the confidence that they will succeed in the future.
I know that there are many leaders like Coach Cooper within SWISD, but it warmed my heart to witness such exceptional leadership in action right before my eyes. Thank you, Coach Cooper, for being an inspiration and for your dedication to our students
During the game, I dedicated a portion of my time to interact with the student groups who passionately support our athletes, regardless of the outcome. Just like the football players, these students are required to give their best even when faced with challenges. Their positive attitude and steady spirit served as a great source of inspiration.
I was filled with happiness witnessing the love that permeated our campuses during the celebration of Grandparents Day. Witnessing our students enjoying meaningful moments with their incredible grandparents was a truly heartwarming experience. Grandparents play an essential role in a child's development and we can’t thank them enough for all the wonderful things they do for our students.
I'd like to share a heartwarming moment that took place at Elm Creek Elementary School. It touched my heart deeply when I witnessed an emotional welcome home for a student's father, who has been serving in the military. The school staff collaborated with the little girl's mother to create a surprise reunion. Her father had been away on a tour of duty, and the little girl wore a patriotic dress, believing she was getting ready to take a photo to send to her dad. To her astonishment, he surprised her right at the school. You can watch the heartwarming video that was shared on Facebook here. Kudos to Elm Creek for orchestrating this incredible experience for one of our families.
In closing, I'd like us to pause and reflect on September 11, 2001, a day when nearly 3,000 lives were tragically lost in the attacks on the Twin Towers, the Pentagon, and aboard United Airlines Flight 93. This was an appalling event in the history of the United States, one etched into our collective memory, reminding us of the swift and unpredictable nature of life. Today marks the 22nd anniversary of this devastating incident, and we take a moment to express our love and support to the survivors and the families of those heroic individuals who lost their lives that fateful day.
We honor their bravery and sacrifice, echoing the words of former U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, who aptly said, "remember the hours after September 11 when we came together as one. It was the worst day we have ever seen, but it brought out the best in all of us." Let us continue to live each day to the fullest, and let us ensure that we treat one another with love, respect, and kindness. May God bless each and every one of you. Wishing you a wonderful week ahead.
Sincerely,