A Fresh Start

I have done a lot of thinking about the past semester and 2017 as a whole as well as looking ahead at the new year.  I love the concept of a new year as being a chance to refocus on making new beginnings if that is something that needs to happen in your life, but I would also like to remind you of something that a college acquaintance reminded me of recently... that EVERY day gives you the opportunity to start again, to get better, to become what we long to be and to fight for what we want.  I hope that you will start that journey today or tomorrow, but always remember that as long as you are here on this Earth you have the opportunity to live a life that makes you proud and to chase after your dreams.  So, here we go... today marks the start of a new week, the 1st of a new month, and the beginning of a new year.  Plus, academically, it is the start of a new semester.  You can make this semester and 2018 into anything you want it to be.

A couple of quick, important reminders...

- If you cannot remember what your 2nd semester class schedule was, please look it up on Infinite Campus tonight, print it out and take it with you for tomorrow.

-  If you are a College Credit Plus student, taking CSCC classes at WKHS, your classes do not begin until January 16th so you get a few extra off periods for a few more days.

-  We are still getting grades in from your teachers for your 1st semester classes, but remember, tomorrow is a FRESH START for all of you!  One of the best parts about functioning on a semester system is that you get to start fresh at the beginning of each new semester (even in your year-long classes).  As classes begin, you will not be behind in ANY of your classes.  You are able to create new goals, take new steps, and focus on achieving whatever goals you have set for yourself.  It doesn't matter if you did great 1st semester or if it was a disaster.  You start over tomorrow.  This semester is in front of you for you to make of it whatever you want to see happen.  You are in control.

- Another good reminder, as we start this new semester, please take a moment and make sure that you are ready to hit the ground running.  Clean out your bookbag, organize your notes, get new supplies if needed, find your planner and start filling it out (see me if you need a new planner), and make the most out of each day in front of you.  I am excited to see what you will accomplish in the classroom and beyond over the next few months.  As always, if you need help in your classes, please reach out to your teachers, utilize the support from the Academic Assistants, and see me for additional resources.

I am beyond excited to see you tomorrow.  (For the record, Lexi is even more excited than anyone can imagine as she has desperately missed being around all of you!)  I really hope you will stop by and see me to check in and let me know how your break went... it feels like it has been so long since I have had the chance to talk with all of you and to hear about your lives.

And, for tonight... get some sleep!  It is going to seem REALLY EARLY tomorrow when the alarms start going off!  (That is the only thing I am not looking forward to about being back at school tomorrow.)