The climb continues through perseverance

What would have happened if Michael Jordan would have quit basketball after not making his high school team as a freshman? Or if George Washington had told his troops, “We are getting our butts kicked and starving and freezing; let’s go home.” Or if the Wright brothers had listened to those who said flying was impossible. Or if Mystery Inc. had never conquered their fears, but instead ran off with Scooby for a snack?

All of these examples are of those who did not let major obstacles hold them back. They persevered; they battled on for the goal in their heart. Jordan practiced like a dedicated disciple to the hardwood. He would become the greatest player in NBA history. The Wright brothers would fly, through great science and trial and error. George Washington’s troops did march on empty stomachs and frozen feet, and we became America and he became its first president. Scooby Doo always found courage at the right time and found out that “old man Landers” was really wearing a mask, and those pesky kids would save the day.

Lake Roosevelt Schools are going through a time of perseverance right now. The Raiders have a goal: to be the best. That goal has not wavered. The staff and students at LRHS are still heading up that path to greatness. Yes, a major blow has been delivered, but they will not lose sight of the goal. They will climb that mountain, with alumni, students and staff, pushing and pulling, assisting the whole way. Let us not lose sight of the goal. This is just another trial in attitude and heart and faith and fortitude.

The basketball teams are both in districts and fighting for their goals of getting to the state tournament. Wrestling just dominated their district tournament and has seven grapplers moving forward, many of them with title shots on their goal sheets. Seniors are bringing in multiple acceptance letters from colleges. We have a new superintendent in waiting, with big goals as well, eager to take the reins from a current superintendent who accomplished many of his goals. Grades are rising, people are noticing and LR is making a new name for itself. We must not lose sight of the goal.

“Your Raider Best,” is not just a catchy phrase that someone thought would motivate kids to be good. It is a push in changing an environment and a cultural transformation. It includes community, students and staff to move towards a new horizon. One that has been forgotten until this year, but it can be reached together. Put in the practice, ignore the pain, don’t listen to what others are saying, and go conquer your fears; save the day.

The story does not end with these unfortunate circumstances. The chapter continues, and in the end we will all say, “WE ARE LR.” Together, we will conquer this, also.