Page 13 - Pearland High School Media Guide 2016

A Word From the Superindendent . . .

n behalf of the Pearland ISD Board and Admin-
Oistration, I welcome everyone here tonight. Our
desire is that both our community and visitors will
remember this night for its excitement and for the
good will and graciousness exhibited by many.

Both of our mighty football teams (Dawson and
Pearland) compete in the Texas 6A division contain-
ing the biggest and best high school football teams
in the nation. And we know that our bands, cheer-
leaders, dancers, and many others also make this
night special. In short, we’rehonored to showcase such a storied histo-
ry of athletic, extra-curricular, academic, and fine arts accomplishment.

Our school district is increasingly well known (throughout the state
and even in some international venues) for placing a high emphasis on
“grit.” This is defined (by Angela Duckworth, educational researcher)
as “perseverance and passion for long term goals.” It entails “work-
ing strenuously toward challenges, maintaining effort and interest over
years despite failure, adversity and plateaus in progress. The gritty in-
dividual approaches achievement as a marathon; his or her advantage
is stamina.”

What better way to teach and model these things than on this field with
our athletes, our band performers, and all of the others that make Friday
Night so exciting? I know you appreciate and applaud the life changing
role that our coaches, teachers, and volunteers play in the lives of our
students. Indeed, inside each of us is a higher “scoreboard” capable
of appreciating the hard work and integrity necessary for accomplish-
ment in all worthy lifetime endeavors.

May the good Lord bestow a blessing on all those who make it possible
for our young people to shine!

Sincerely,
JOHN P. KELLY, Ph.D.
Superintendent, Pearland ISD

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