Thank You General Logan

Many students think I'm joking when I tell them that our very own John A. Logan came up with the idea for Memorial Day. When they hear the words John A. Logan, they usually think of a large high school without bells or lockers. (I am a proud alumni by the way) But its true. General John A. Logan first declared Memorial Day on May 5, 1868 in his General Order No. 11. (www.usmemorialday.org/order11.html) If you visit the link you will read and understand the purpose for such a holiday and it really begins to humble you.

My favorite movie of all time, and there will be no other, is Saving Private Ryan. The images truly make me appreciate the high price of freedom and also brings me back down to Earth. The part of the movie that always makes me choke up is the end of the movie when a aged Private Ryan asks his wife to tell him he had led a good life. He lived knowing that he had to earn the quality of life afforded him by soldiers he never knew. Lots people tell me that the premise of the movie is not realistic. Sending a squad of men to find a single soldier is a waste of resources and only makes for a good movie. That may be right but the real premise of the movie can be lost. Watch the clip and tell me that it doesnt center you. (www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhU6JWWZKbM)

Had there not been a holiday we would have one less opportunity to reflect on the sacrifice of others and be thankful for our way of life. Put flowers out this Memorial Day and fly your flag proudly. Better yet, fly it everyday.

Making a Change, I think...

Recently I made a major change in my life. I am leaving a school that I have been principal at for the last four years to come to a new school in my home town. the differences between these two buildings are many. I am leaving a high school to come to a junior high and I might add that the last time I was in a junior high was when I was in junior high. My new school has twice as many students and staff, its an older building, and I will find myself trying to beef up technology use in my new school. In a lot of ways I will be taking on a challenge with this new position.


I had the opportunity to visit my new building and hang out with the outgoing principal. As I walked around I found myself doing the same things that I do everyday in Elkville. I was looking to see where the custodian was. I was using my foot to rub out shoe marks on the floor. I found myself holding back from telling students to get to class. In short, I don't think I'm making that much of a change at all.


People who work in schools, regardless of where they end up have very special qualities. They love riding the daily roller coaster that kids can take them on. They realize that their job is more than a job, it is a way of life and it eventually defines them. I have been very proud to be a part of this profession and though I hope to retire as a Redbird, I will continue to be a public servant where ever I go.


On a side note: It has been tough saying goodbye to my staff and students at Elverado. A first year teacher that I hired came to me and shook my hand. He thanked me for giving him his start and told me that he appreciated it. My reply, I just try to put aces in their places. I have always looked to hire those that I see potential in, not because of who they know. That's how I got my start and I will always remember how it feels to be recognized for what I can do.