What I’d like to share this week doesn’t come with a whole lot of great pictures. No, I probably don’t have any cool names to drop or anything like that. But I did have two moments that I’m just so proud of this past week. Again, I live in a small bubble sometimes, and a lot of what goes on around here really makes me smile. So, I want to share these two quick stories for you.
The first story is a quick one about our staff. The annual Old Newsboys Coats for Kids Campaign took place this past week. Each year the Old Newsboys reach out to us and provide us with codes where we can support some of our families who have a need. And every year, our teachers have been generous enough to give to the organization. Now don’t get me wrong. Our kids still benefit greatly from the organization, as what they spend on our kids doesn’t come close to what we donate, but I’m very proud that our staff supports local organizations such as this. With the help of Mr. Perlaky, the teachers and administration were able to donate $445 to the organization. I’m proud of this amount, as it’s a busy time for everyone including our teachers, but the giving continues because we know how it comes back and helps our kids.
My second quick story is about First Sergeant Rickey Thomas. I’ve gotten to work with First Sergeant for a long time. I know what he does for kids. This past Saturday, I happened to go to the University of Toledo to watch one of the drill meets. I didn’t get to stay long because I had a busy Saturday as well, but I got to watch the Armed IDR performances. I happened to sit for the platoon drill behind the First Sergeant and I listened to him as he and Sergeant First Class Blessing discussed what was going on. What was cool for me was the story that they shared with each other about how excited they were about the young lady who was getting ready to lead the sequence on this day. On Thursday, they made the decision that it was time for this young lady to step out of her comfort zone and lead. They were very excited and confident that she could do a great job. Each step, each turn of the way, you could hear First Sergeant Thomas mumble under his breath. “Great job. That’s it. Nice” and various other compliments. It’s moments like these that I’m thankful I’m in education. Though I don’t get to create those moments as much as I used to given my current role, it is so nice for me to witness when our staff do. In the end, Paige and the platoon did excellent and finished with a third place trophy. Great job.
By the way, this past year First Sergeant Thomas was nominated and won recognition as a Friend of Springfield, and over the winter break he will be recognized at a luncheon for all of his dedication. It is simple things like this that keep SHS a great place, not only for kids but for the community. Truly, #Springfieldstrong.
