Sometimes it's easy to get wrapped up in the stresses of life. Thanksgiving is a holiday that reminds us to slow down and think about life's bless- ings. As the Superintendent of Staples Motley Schools and a member of the com- munity, I h ave much to be thankful for.

Here is a tiny inventory:

I am thankful for a great staff. As I walk the halls and hear the stories, I am impressed by the achievements and dedication our staff demonstrates throughout the year. A devoted educator can change the life of a student. A building full of devoted staff members can change the lives of many students. A district full of devoted personnel can change the lives of our communities and our future.

I am thankful for our students. Daily, our students exceed our expectations. It may be in the test scores, in the classroom, on the courts/field or it may be in the way they reach out to help one another. Our students are role models and we are proud to call them Cardinals.

I am thankful for our parents who are involved in their child's life. It is with great respect that I say thank you for guiding your child(ren) through their developing years to enable them to become responsible and respectable adults.

I am thankful for extracurricular activities and the dedication of our students and staff. This fall, we saw great success from

our students in many ways - maybe it was on the stage,

in FFA or athletically. Congratulations on your success. I am looking forward to a great season of winter activities.

I am thankful for our veteran's who dedicated their lives to preserving our freedom. I was inspired and proud of our staff, students and community for the beautiful Veteran's Day programs assembled throughout our district earlier this month.

I am thankful for the bounty of generosity in our district. Some people always find a way to give of their time, money and talent. One would have to be blind not to see examples of this in our school every day. We are very lucky to be surrounded by a community that values education.