WISD Celebrates the Start of a New School Year.
     WALLER ISD-Waller ISD employees and school board members gathered on August 14 for its annual Convocation at WHS.  The once a year event brings everyone together to start off an enthusiastic new school year.  The occasion began with a continental breakfast in the school cafeteria where all gathered to eat and mingle while the WHS band performed music for all to enjoy. 

     After breakfast, all traveled into the school auditorium where the ceremonies began.  The ROTC kicked off the affair by its touching flag ceremony followed by the National Anthem and the energetic WHS Fight Song played by the WHS Band.  Asst. Superintendent Danny Twardowski led invocation followed by Superintendent Richard McReavy opening introductions and remarks.  “Waller ISD has had their best academic year ever” said Superintendent Richard McReavy. All responded with much cheer, excitement and a standing ovation for the Superintendent.

     WISD Board President Robert “Bo” Pierce gave a heart felt, sincere welcome. Mr. Pierce spoke to the crowd thanking them for all they do for Waller ISD and for the tremendous difference they make in the student’s lives.  He spoke from his heart and from his own recent personal experiences.  He encouraged all not to fret over the “small things” that may make them angry and to let the anger pass if it is not to be expected to exceed 30 days. His personal message reminded each person to make the most out of their days and not to take life for granted. The moving welcome from the Board President prompted a standing ovation from all of the inspired attendees. 

     Dr. Pat Pringle, Regional Service Director for Region XIII in Austin, was the Convocation Keynote Speaker.  Dr. Pringle spoke about the changes in his life and in his career in education over the last 30 years. He pointed out how phrases have taken on different meanings over the passing years, how people live longer, and the rising growth trends in Texas.  He discussed his life experiences as an educator and how it is viewed as the most trusted profession.  He explained why teachers teach and how 96% of teachers love the work they do.  They call it “a sense of calling”, feel the profession adds value to society, and would teach if they started all over again.  Dr. Pringle ended with the Olympic margin of victory comparisons, which are fractions of a second, and showed how close one can be from winning.   He compared an Olympic win or loss to WISD since the school district missed the victory of being “Recognized” at all seven campuses by just a tiny fraction.  Dr. Pringle closed with defining “Excellence”.  He defined it as “the result of caring more than others think is wise, risking more than others think is safe, dreaming more than others think is practical, and expecting more than others think is possible.” “Excellence” is the distinctive attribute that all WISD employees encompass with pride. 

     The program ended with exuberance and all returned full of motivation to their campuses and departments to continue to prepare for the start of a new school year.