Friday Focus
May 24, 2019
eLEAD Conference Winnings
Last summer, we had the highest attendance percentage of any school in South Madison. We have held onto the prize money to buy something special. Last month, when talking about the awards program it was decided to order table covers to dress up our presentations. We now have four six-foot table covers as well as a new decal for the podium. This is the set up for last night's sixth grade honors night. We are looking awfully spiffy!
Award Programs
Next week, we need all hands on deck during our programs. Every staff member who does not have direct student supervision duty needs to be in the gym. Please do not sit next to a fellow staff member. I need you to spread out and sit with the children. When the program is over, we will try to use the north exit for as many classes as possible.
Purging
Field Day
Hats off to Brytni, Dana, Sheila, Angela, Jen and Jenny for all their hard work to make field days possible for our children. It is such a great opportunity for our charges. They thoroughly enjoy participating in all the cool events.
Ridge Readers
New PTO officers
Valerie and I met with the old and new PTO Presidents yesterday. We want to ensure a smooth transition of the financial dealings and upcoming projects. The new officers are meeting on Saturday to begin planning their ideas for events and projects.
The PTO is paying for two new sets of swings for the playground so everyone has a chance to swing at recess. They will be installed in late July.
Valerie's Vision
Seven years ago, I asked Valerie to consider writing an editorial type of article for the Friday Focus each week. I wanted it to focus on her personal thoughts about an educational issue or anything else of interest to us all. She quickly agreed and it has been my favorite part of the Friday Focus each week. It is always fun for me to read her thoughts and ideas. I always find them relevant and enlighting. I think it also gives you a chance to know her a little better. I have never changed a word in any of her musings.
I could not have a better teammate than Valerie Jean Martinez. Steger. Her calm demeanor, genuine love of children, and an excellent analytical mind have been of great value to Maple Ridge in the past and will continue to be in the future. I have no doubt about the future of Maple Ridge with her at the wheel. We are all fortunate that she is with us in South Madison.
She is also fortunate to have a wonderful secretarial staff. Audra and Jaymee are a talented pair that we are all fortuitous to work with for the benefit of our children. As you know the phone is always ringing, the doorbell is constantly dinging, and everyone just 'needs a second." How they get anything done is amazing. They are the definition of people that are pulled in many different directions all day.
Luckily Valerie is changing offices and she will be able to yell "Hey Audra" down the hallway.
Thank you and Final Thoughts
Thank you so much for the wonderful retirement reception. It was so kind that you took time to attend, and spend time with me. It was way beyond special. I still can't believe that so many of the children from my first class at Fall Creek were present. The handwritten notes are treasures I will always greatly value
I have three thoughts I want you to consider in the future.
1. Your family comes first.
Our definitions of family are an eclectic mix. There is our home family and our school family. I have always appreciated your passion and hard work. It is amazing the hours you spend to make learning spectacular for our children. While MRE is very important, your family comes first, however you define that wonderful group of people you love and support.
2. You work with children, not students.
While the difference may seem subtle, there is truly a vast difference. Children need much more than just an education. Children need our love, guidance, and support to prosper. You give of your heart and talents to children. Please always remember that you work with children, not students.
3. Always find the good!
Your attitude and the way you view situations makes an enormous difference in your outlook on life. Children look to you for guidance on how to handle a wide variety of situations. As Hain Ginott said. "Children are like wet cement. Whatever falls on them makes an impression." Be present each day and show our children how a great life should be lived. Remember " 'Life is Good!"