Thank You

 

Many of us started the school year early.  We did some virtual work over the summer to get a head start on the new year.  When classes officially started, we were all wearing masks and truly happy to be back in person again.  Most of us wondered what the new normal would bring.

While this year has been stressful for many of us, I truly appreciate the effort that you have put into class.  It could be coming in early for reviews, zooming at night, or meeting in the ARC.  Your commitment to master the material has been the best.

I have been impressed by those of you who have improved tremendously during the course of the year.  Despite getting some poor results on assessments, you continued to press on.  This demonstration of grit not only served you well in this class but also will be help you throughout your life.

I also want to thank the people who mastered the material and then explained it to fellow classmates.  The fact that you took the time to help other classmates demonstrates the type of person you are.

Now you are moving on to the next step in your journey, so I want to give you this parting advice. If you are not sure what you want to major in, do not worry about it.  That is what college is all about.  Take different classes and see what interests you.  Do a summer internship but keep exploring until you find what you really want to do.

When you are in college, sit up front, raise your hand, and go to office hours.  The more you engage in the class, the more you will get out of the class.  Remember that colleges offer many resources and that it is your job as a student to use these resources efficiently.  The skill you always want to improve upon is your ability to learn.

When you arrive at college, find a high school or middle school close by.  Donate one hour a week to work with one student.  It might be in a favorite subject of yours, a sport, or an extracurricular activity.  While the teacher might want you to work with many students, try to keep it to one.  You will be truly amazed at how much you can help a student improve in just one hour.

Lastly, as you are closing your high school journey, take the time to write a gratitude note to the teachers who have influenced you (your parents should also get one).  They will truly appreciate it.

 

With gratitude and deep admiration,