1,400 teachers, staff and administrators gathered at Waukesha South H.S. to kick-off the 2006-07 school year. In addition to catching-up on the “where did you go, what did you do, and how is the family”, there was a noticeable buzz in the field house until
Superintendent David Schmidt brought everyone’s attention to the brass section from
Waukesha North’s Marching Band. The Star Spangled Banner has a very special way of becoming the center of attention…
The tone was set early as the
State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Ms. Elizabeth Burmaster, commended everyone for their outstanding work.
Mayor Larry Nelson was greeted with a standing ovation. His 30 years of teaching experience brought an understanding of his audience that an “outsider” could never hope to achieve. Mayor Larry’s words of thanks and his expressed support for education in Waukesha were welcome words from his heart to the assemblage.
The District honored corporate partners, and commended our School Board for their tireless, often thankless work on behalf of the 13,000+ students in the District. A guest speaker wrapped it all up with messages of hope and inspiration.
What struck me as special was the goodwill demonstrated before, during, and after the assembly. People were genuinely pleased to reacquaint and be a part of this. This sense of “community” was on display everywhere you turned.
In speaking with the Superintendent afterwards, Dave Schmidt professed this to be one of his favorite days of the school year; “The energy of this group is contagious, and you could feel the excitement of another school year building…”.
I agree wholeheartedly. Welcome back, Waukesha students - your teachers are recharged and ready to expand your universes.
Have a great school year!
