Tuesday, May 8, 2018

Rider’s Up! It’s Going to Be an Exciting Finish



Every year on the first Saturday in May, the “greatest 2 minutes” in sports takes place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, KY.  I have never been to the derby in person, but hope to one day.  However, each year I am glued to the TV cheering on the horse I draw out of the hat at our family’s event.  This year I drew Instilled Regard the 85-1 odd horse at race time that surprised everyone (even me) that it came in fourth. 

Much is the same in a school district during the month of May.  It is a flurry of activity and we never think we can get it all done, but somehow we finish strong.  Staff is preparing their final lessons and students are completing their final assessments to show the hard work put in throughout the year.

It is hard to believe the school year is quickly approaching its end especially since we had what seemed to be the longest winter on record. However, the sun is shining and the days are warmer and longer.  This can only mean it is time for staff and students to enjoy the well-earned summer break to refresh and rejuvenate.  This break is needed due to the many accomplishments this school year that include:

·         Williamstown High School is ranked 25th best high school in the state by the US       News and World Report.
·         The Williamstown Band of Spirit made it to state finals once again placing third in   Class 1A.
·         Three students have been selected to the Governor’s Scholars Program.
·         Numerous students competed in state competition in FCCLA and FFA.  Several   are moving on to national competition.
·         Students are taking tests to earn their private pilot’s license through the air and space program.
·         Over 40% of juniors and seniors are taking dual credit classes with some students earning over 40 college credit hours.
·         The district has been rewarded several grants totaling over one million dollars.  This includes Striving Readers, Early Childhood, 21st Century, Landscaping, and DURR for an outdoor classroom.
·         Students participated in Service activities throughout the City of Williamstown.
·         ACT scores continue to be above state average.
·         A new weight room was added for student athletes.
·         63 students will be graduating from the Class of 2018 and their Sr. Exit Projects were some of the best presentations to date.
·         Cross Country and Track teams were awarded bids to compete in state.
·         We all survived the legislative session. 

I know it is going to be an exciting finish as we prepare for the awards ceremonies, spelling bees, talent shows, class night and graduation ceremonies.  Rider’s Up!  Let’s do this!