Sunday, May 20, 2012

Final Words to Belmond-Klemme's Class of 2012

The Belmond-Klemme Class of 2012 (which includes my own son) left the school doors just minutes ago.   In the welcome speech, I had the chance to have the last word before they officially completed their high school careers.  This is that speech:

Good afternoon. 

My name is Marshall Lewis, and I am the proud Superintendent of Belmond-Klemme.  It is my opportunity and pleasure to welcome you to today’s celebration of the students we serve…a celebration of the years of classrooms, sports, music, honors, accomplishments, and learning. 

As a community of learners, we formally recognize today the advancement of these young men and women on the basis of their academic success.  We informally recognize today that the pathways of their futures begin to dramatically branch as never before.  Today, Class of 2012, marks the beginning of making your own way…of self-reliance…of independence.

Let me guarantee that somewhere along that way you will find success.  You will find happiness.  And you will find satisfaction.  Let me additionally guarantee that each of you will experience more than these things.  Among some of those experiences, you will find failure, you will find frustration, and you will find grief.  These are additional learning opportunities…chances to look deeply into who you are, to grow even more as a person, and to evaluate the decisions that create the pathway of your life.  Embrace these difficult opportunities … as they are the teachers of your future.  It continues to be our job…the job of those around you today – as your family, friends, and mentors – to prepare you for this and support you along the way.  Rely on that support.  Count on it.

The greatest regret in life is not that we fail in our efforts – it is that we fail to meet our potential.  So, soon to be graduates…don’t sell yourself short.  Set your goals high.  Step up to the challenges of life.  Don’t be timid about your future.  And when you fail in your efforts – fail BIG.  Fail on the grandest scale possible because you pushed yourself to do more than expected.  That is how you eliminate the regret of not meeting your potential, how you strive to meet the challenge, and how you learn to be you.

I wish you all the best in your futures…with Bronco Pride.  Thank you.

Saturday, May 12, 2012

Updating Posts: Blogging and Negotiations

Recently I have posted a couple of blogs:  Does This Matter and Negotiations - Yay!

In doing so, this is my opportunity to do a little "followup" on these two topics.

First, I don't know if it matters!  My plan was to post a blog every 3-4 days in April to see if I had any more readers based on the frequency of the posts.  Well, I failed miserably on my end.  I posted 3-4 all month!  So essentially I have no clue whether it would have enhanced anything or not.  For those of you waiting on the edge of your seat for my doctoral data to emerge, I apologize, although I'm pretty sure there is safety in acknowledging there is nobody in that category.

Second, the Belmond-Klemme school and both associations have achieved tentative agreements this past week.  Although there are always difficult moments and it is a very personal and oppositional concept, the outcome of finishing in and of itself is rewarding.  Thanks to all who were involved in the process.

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