Leadership and Development Trainer
The Roseville Optimist Club was treated with another inspiring presentation by the Roseville Area School District. Our December meeting featured staff and students from the Roseville Area Middle School including Principal Heidi George, advisor Yusuf Ahmed, and students participating in the AVID Program. (Advancement Via Individual Determination.)
The Roseville Area School District is nothing short of phenomenal and we are blessed to have so many of their staff as members of our club. Every month we have an opportunity to interact with and get to know them and their students. The students who attend are delightful and are an inspiration to all of us.
During our December meeting I was sitting with Karen Schaub, our club’s past president and former Director of Community Education for the Roseville School District. She made a comment that should give all MASA members inspiration, encouragement, and a shot of Positive Mental Attitude.
“This is happening in schools throughout Minnesota.” – Karen Schaub
We are facing tough challenges right now but what has been true in the past will ring true again. The field of education will be on the leading edge to guide us through the challenging times and spearhead the charge for civility, harmony, understanding, and social justice.
Let’s return our focus to the Roseville students who brighten our meetings with their presence. They are bright, energetic, articulate, and optimistic about the good things to come. They know and truly believe that it is by helping other students achieve their success and sense of self-worth that they achieve their own. Antonio Guterres, Secretary General of the United Nations, says, “Our best hope for the future is in the generation coming up.” Relax folks. We’re in good hands.
It happens because of you.
With adult mentorship, young people thrive. That makes you pretty important in the scheme of things. The wonderful achievements in education today are a result of your leadership, your dedication, and your caring about the kids you serve. Take a few quiet moments to reflect on the good you do, give yourself a pat on the back, then roll up your sleeves and continue to lead the way. You are amazing.
Denny Smith, a former teacher and coach, is a motivational speaker and author committed to making our schools and communities safe and welcoming for all people. Excerpts from his latest books, Emotional Intelligence 101, Coaches Make the Difference, and Always Be a Class Act can be previewed at http://www.dennysmith.com.
