Sometimes, when one reads or listens to
the news, it is easy to focus on the negative things in our communities and
become discouraged about the kind of world our children will inherit. However,
if you seek opportunities, we can find some good news – young people hard at
work to make a difference in our communities and around the world!
Here
are several reminders that there are so many good kids here in Garden County, doing the ‘right’ thing:
*Last
week, the high school drama students presented a play and the community support
was awesome! The kids really enjoyed themselves, as did the spectators!
*Several
high school students are employed at our local nursing home and witnessing
their caring for the residents there is heartwarming!
*Four
high school students were recently inducted into the National Honor Society
based on their academic successes.
*Student
aids assist at the elementary daily, helping the preschoolers and elementary
students. They are great role models for our kids!
*Recent
speeches at our Veteran’s Day programs reflected youth patriotism and respect
for all veterans.
*Fundraising
efforts provide donations to local food pantries, the American Heart
Association, and people in need.
*Our
local grocery store manager recently commended the kids who went
trick-or-treating for using their manners. A patron mentioned to her that when
they lived in CO, students rarely said please or thank you and here all the
kids were so polite on Halloween.
It
is often too easy to focus on what is negative, rather than what is positive.
Let’s make a conscious effort this Thanksgiving season to notice what is good
in each other and our youth and give thanks for living in such a kind and
caring community. Kids certainly are in need of more positive role models
versus critics. After all, they learn from us, right?
-Dr.
Paula Sissel
Superintendent/Elementary
Principal