Loss

The 2009-2010 school year is one that I will never forget. We lost a precious 9th grader in a school shooting in February and now we've lost a dear friend, an awesome educator, and a Mighty Discovery Panther to cancer. My heart is heavy as a write these words, but also filled with wonder at the words from the students to Jon's family. These 9th graders, who have already suffered so much, are writing words of love and comfort to Jon's wife and son. How amazing to see how much they care and how much they love! Their words also echo what I feel towards Jon. One student stated that he left us a legacy and that legacy is to "never give up." Jon didn't give up! He never complained and the only days he missed coming to school were days he had to go to his doctor. His strength and courage were amazing and his life a wonderful example of living every moment fully! Jon, dear friend, you will be missed!

What Can You Say?

My two previous posts were about technology - allowing the students to use their digital devices that are so important to them. But life has changed for this principal. I am trying to help my kids and my faculty and staff come to grips with the tragedy we have experienced. In the midst of trying to cope, I remember all of the wonderful people in Madison and the surrounding communities who have shown such love and compassion for the students, faculty, and staff of Discovery and that is extremely comforting. The outpouring of love has been wonderful. I try to refrain from reading the negative comments that individuals write. Those around me tell me that I concern myself too much with those who are negative. I try to "think on those things that are of a good report" as I struggle to move through this tragedy. The desire of my heart is to see my kids come through this. I want them to know how important it is for them to live their lives with passion, to love completely, to forgive freely, and to finish strong. In other words to live their life with No Regrets! We have all been reminded of how short life can be. Discovery's kids are awesome and I am so fortunate to be able to share in their lives! We will finish strong!

Personal Devices in School (part 2)

We have allowed students to bring and use their own personal devices for a few weeks. It was an interesting few weeks after Thanksgiving. Students, of course, asked to use their personal cell phones. As a faculty, and with our IT Director's blessing, we told students they could use their cell phones, iPods, iPhones, etc. Students are using their cell phones to take notes, to access the internet, to take a picture of the teacher's illustration on her SmartBoard, to record the teacher's lesson! It is just flat out exciting to see our kids using their own personal devices for educational purposes! How cool is that!!! It sure beats having to "take them away" and deal punitively with students! I know what you're thinking! "Those kids are texting away." Well, maybe they are, but we are beginning to tap into the tools of our digital kids and I am pumped!