Exceptional Education for Today’s Learners and Tomorrow’s Leaders
More than an impressive phrase containing bold words, “…exceptional education for today’s learners and tomorrow’s leaders,” is the mission statement of Springfield Local Schools. In truth, I don’t think a lot of people devote a large amount of time to reflect on mission statements. For me, however, these words represent what happens day in and day out in our classrooms. These words are visible as our students take the stage, and come to life in our stadiums and sports fields, on playgrounds and in every other location in the district where students are offered a safe place to learn and dream.
The mission statement plays out, too, in the lives, stories and accomplishments of our alumni. In September, I had the opportunity to talk with many of our graduates who returned to the area to celebrate with classmates while attending festivities associated with their 10th and 50th class reunions. The stories that were shared with me—whether they were memories from performances during the “big game,” a play/musical or finally getting that elusive A in Mr. Howe’s class—all were part of a bigger picture of the opportunities offered to every student during his/her 13 years in the Springfield Local School District.
That bigger picture is why so many members of the Springfield faculty and staff make the choice to frequently arrive early and leave late. That bigger picture reminds me that what we do means something to our students. Sure, there are graduates who prefer to leave school memories behind, yet upon reflection even they can probably recall that one teacher who “got” them or the bus driver whose smile started or ended their days. These memories last—perhaps even throughout a lifetime
Being exceptional is a choice—and that choice challenges us to find the extraordinary moments in ordinary days. Choosing to be exceptional means that we don’t admire a problem, but seek the solution that is in the best interest of all. The quest to be exceptional also is a powerful motivator. It inspires students, too. I think of Devin Aller, Springfield High School Class of 2011, who made the choice to return to his alma mater to teach today’s learners and tomorrow’s leaders. Of course I think, too, of our graduates whose talents also take them far away from our community and allow them to reach the pinnacle of their dreams. On September 10, while listening to Class of 1971 alumni Rick Upchurch, I realized that having an exceptional life doesn’t require us to be perfect. He was speaking to an audience comprised of his friends, classmates, fans and current SHS students during the dedication of the Rick Upchurch Gate #40 at Springfield Community Stadium and spoke not of the Super Bowl record he holds (please, Google it) nor of his induction into the Denver Bronco’s Ring of Fame. Rick could have, maybe should have, yet he spoke of the lessons learned more than 50 years ago from his Springfield teachers and coaches. These lessons eventually became cherished memories— so cherished that some words were broken during delivery by the depth of his emotions. He spoke not of victories on a football field; rather Rick reminded us to always remember where we come from. He defined springfield-strong, even before the phrase gained a hashtag.
It is my sincere goal that each student who leaves Springfield, either through a family move or graduation, knows the depth of our commitment to providing exceptional moments in the todays and tomorrows that make up our lives.
