Once I learn how to edit I'll take it down. How about this:
Big Surprise at CTE
The last school I was part of a team at was Cracker Trail Elementary. When I transferred to CTE in 2001 I was in need of a change. My first school was good: they gave me a chance, got my feet wet, got my feet burnt, learned a lot, and brought my wife to the school. After two years working together (which isn’t as bad as people say) we both needed a change. Not because of each other, but because of outside factors. We both filled out the form and our names were out there in the rink. We both received phone calls quickly. She wanted to go to middle school and she was granted her wish. I received a call from Dr. Richard Demeri at CTE. Of course he didn’t call me before he was supposed to or give me a tour of the school the day before he could talk me about transferring. Gotta love it! So I chose CTE and really didn’t think about it – it felt right.
Over the next couple of years, CTE grew on me. The entire school was very supportive and we (Chris Doty and I – Doty is now the principal of Hill-Gustat Middle School here) decided we would do things “For the Kids.” Now sometimes we were a little outrageous but the majority of the time it was pure fun and the kids loved it. Everyone talks about changing and establishing a positive school culture. Well ladies and gentleman we were definitely part of a team that did it. My attitude changed and I loved coming to work.
So Cracker Trail has a special place in my heart. When I had my kidney transplant in March 2006, they gave me a huge send off with the kids and teachers. Little did I know they would do the same thing when I was diagnosed with the cancer.
I had no idea what was planned. Here’s how it started. At the KLC we had a county wide inservice set up for Thursday, October 18. Andrew (principal and friend) told me we’d need to borrow the sound system from CTE and wanted to know if I would go with him. Sure, we can load it up in the Navigator and head back. A few weeks before, I had to pick up the sound system and was told someone would load it into my truck. Rick didn’t want me lifting anything. Needless to say, the dude didn’t lift anything. Par for the course with him (BTW-give me my extension cord!). So Andrew came up with a plan – we’ll park in the front and make him bring it up front. “Yes, “ I exclaimed, “that would be so awesome.” Andrew, the ultimate conman.
So, unknown to me, we were on a timetable and had to get to the school. We were in deep conversation all the way there. Still in deep conversation, we pulled into the entryway and pulled toward the front. I saw a bunch of kids sitting under the awnings and told Andrew, “There are kids all over we’re going to have to park out here. “ ‘No, no, “he says, “just pull in and get a spot.” I reluctantly agreed and continued on. The next thing I saw was a huge banner with “Get Well Soon Mr. K.” painted on it. I looked at Andrew, started laughing, and said, “You are such a punk!”
What a blessing to have such a punk as a friend and what a blessing to have a school show so much support. We parked and walked over to Rick (Dr. D.) and Patsy Martinez (she’s the bookkeeper- so you know who’s really in charge!) who had some special gifts. Since they knew I shaved my head, I was presented with a large basket of cleaning supplies. Of course, the majority of the products were Mr. Clean!
The majroity of the teachers and students were out there. I walked around and gave high-fives and hugs to the kids and teachers. Rick called me over and said some extremely kind words and allowed me to speak. Do I remember what I said? No, of course not. Andrew told me I didn’t say anything stupid. The kids were calling my name and presented me with cards and signs. The look in their eyes was worth anything I’ve gone through. The time we spent establishing that culture of love came back tenfold. My philosophy about school and kids will remain the same. Like it or not, we are the leaders. Wherever we lead them, they will follow. Let’s lead them done the path of character, hope, faith, and love. A lot of the time we are the only the people who will take their hand and guide them. They deserve it. Oh! We need to make it FUN on the way.
What an uplifting experience. The Lord has blessed me with so such support from family, friends, co-workers, fellow church members, even people I do not know. What can I say. I question my worthiness of such support sometimes. It has been such a humbling experience. After this is finished I hope I’ll walk a path the Lord approves of. Where do I go? I know he’s leading me to be a leader. Leading church and leading at school. I’ll follow your lead Lord. Guide me with your hand.
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