1-29-2016

Mary’s Minute

“I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”

                                                                                      ~ Nelson Mandela

 

Last night several Perry Central students triumphed over their fears by getting up on stage to share their talents.  I heard several of them comment about how nervous they were, but I also could see how empowered they were after conquering their fear.  When we think about courage and conquering fear we often think of it as an individual thing, and the burden certainly does fall to the individual, but as a school community I think it is also important for us to think about how we encourage students and each other to be courageous.  In addition to enjoying the talent shared at “Coffee and Conversation,” I marveled at the power of creating a safe place for sharing.  The atmosphere created by the experience thanks to Jennifer Ball, as well as our supportive students, allowed students to take risks without the worry of being ridiculed.  As terrific as the performances were, they were not perfect.  Students made mistakes, but their peers in the audience encouraged them.  I am so impressed by the talent of our students, by their courage to perform, and most of all, proud of the atmosphere that allowed them to take risks among supportive peers.  Thanks to Mrs. Ball and all who made the night a celebration of courage and support.

                                                                              Have a great week!

                                                                               Mary

1-15-2016

Mary’s Minute

“For one minute, walk outside, stand there in silence. Look up at the sky, and contemplate how amazing life is.”

                         ~ Anonymous

Sometimes we get too busy to see take time to be reflective.  It is about time, but it is also about taking time to think reflectively in order to see things clearly.  Sometimes the best way to see things from an outside perspective is to see ourselves from other people’s eyes.  I want to thank School Board Member, Glenn Etienne, for being observant and sharing this story with me.  Glenn was a Perry Central basketball game, where he overheard a couple of mothers from another team commenting on how clean Perry Central was.  They also commented on the nice lounge area in the commons, and ended the conversation by saying, “You can just tell this is a good school.”  Although we strive to let our people know that they are doing a good job and are appreciated, it is nice to see that “outsiders” see Perry Central in a positive way. 

I like the quote above because it is good for us to reflect on life, in general, and to take time to ponder its wonder.  I also think that it is helpful for us to think of our daily life and work in the same way.  Sometimes it is good to consider different perspectives in order to appreciate what we have, as well as to continually improve.

                Thanks for all you do! 

                                                Mary

1-8-2016

Mary’s Minute

“There are two kinds of pride, both good and bad.  ’Good pride' represents our dignity and self-respect. 'Bad pride' is the deadly sin of superiority that reeks of conceit and arrogance.”

                                                                                                ~ John C. Maxwell

I have to admit that I am so proud of Perry Central and the good things that our staff and students are doing, but I often worry about being too proud.  This Maxwell quote helps me understand this feeling.  We just need to be careful that the pride we feel at Perry Central is rooted in dignity and self-respect.  We are proud of the good work of our students, but we never can let that reek of conceit and arrogance.  There must be a careful balance in celebrating success and making sure our students, parents, and staff feel good about their accomplishments without crossing the line into “bad pride.”  I think part of what makes Perry Central special is our sense of humility and “good pride.”  As the state publishes test scores and letter grades we are proud of the work of our students and staff, but we are also humble knowing that another year could create other results, and that our only competition is ourselves as we strive each day to outdo the prior.  I am very proud of our students, staff, and community (read “good pride”!)

                                                            Have a great week!

                                                            Mary