Why So Serious?

At one of the educational gatherings this year, I heard some words of wisdom from a retired principal, Roger Moore, (no, not that one). He said (and I'm paraphrasing) a great principal takes their job seriously, but doesn't take themselves too seriously. I thought that was pretty good advice and is what I try to be as an elementary principal. Dedicated and devoted to my students, teachers, and school, but willing to take risks and even laugh at myself throughout the year. After all, it's not about me, it's about the students.

Recently I had the opportunity to meet Adam West of Batman fame. I was amazed at the long lines of people just like me who waited for hours, just to shake his hand and get a quick autograph. As far as Batman incarnations go, his wasn't the highest budget, it certainly didn't have good special effects, and the story lines were silly at best. In fact, he made a spoof of the character and later made a career of making a spoof of himself. However, 50 years years later, people are standing in line to meet him or to get his autograph on their favorite merchandise. What was the secret? He had fun playing an iconic character and the world had fun right along with him! Of all the comic heroes, Batman is the darkest and grittiest. Yet, he turned it into a joyous romp of a show and he did it with style!

Education can be a daunting profession. We here the sad stories of students, we wipe away tears, and our job is serious! Dreams and futures depend on what we do. Yet, even through the grueling month of May, we can take advice from Mr. Moore and follow the example of Adam West. We can take our job and duties seriously every day, but still remember to have fun and laugh...even if it's at ourselves! If we can find that balance, we can change the world and find joy as we do it. And maybe years later, someone may come up to you like I did to Adam West, to shake your hand or just say, "Thank you for making my childhood fun!"

Burt Ward (Robin) age 70 & Adam West (Batman) age 87

PEARLS OF WISDOM (From Batman)

"People who stay in glass hotels, shouldn't throw parties."

"A reporter's lot is not easy, making exciting stories out of plain, average, ordinary people like Robin and me."

"That's the trouble with dual identities, Robin. Dual responsibilities."

The Bat Dance (Just for Fun:) 

UPCOMING EVENTS 

Monday, May 23: Celebrate Monday Assembly 9:10-9:30 am
Tuesday, May 24: Volunteer Tea 2:30-3:30 pm
Wednesday, May 25: Achievement Team Planning Meeting 8:20 am
Thursday, May 26: Staff Meeting 8:00 am (Class Groupings)
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Monday, May 30: No School for Memorial Day
Wednesday, June 1: Kindergarten Round Up in the Morning
Friday, June 3: Spring Fling/Basket Raffle 6:00-8:00 pm
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Wednesday, June 8: Last day for GSRP students
Friday, June 10: Field Day 
Thursday, June 16: Last Day for Students (12:10 dismissal)