At 211 degrees a person simply has hot water.  When you add one more degree of energy the water transforms and an incredible amount of energy is released in the form of steam.  This steam can be used to make dinner, power a locomotive, or even generate electricity.  That one extra degree is the same amount of energy as the degree from 150 to 151 degrees, however the result is dramatically different.  We never know as educators when just one more attempt will help a student understand a concept or when one more word of encouragement will provide the motivation needed for success.  At Willard R-II, we continue to dig finding ways to change good practices into great practices.  There is no doubt that we have plenty of extra degrees of heat this week!!!  The custodians and maintenance have done a great job with our buildings over the summer.  Cooks and bus drivers had to put up with the heat yesterday to ensure that kids were served.  Secretaries had to make order out of chaos.   Para’s had to begin to establish those special relationships that help make kids successful.  Teachers got the opportunity to do what they love most.  The Administrators got a good night sleep because they were worn out from solving problems.  I was able to visit most buildings yesterday and witnessed calm, organized, clean buildings.  Most of all I observed students learning.  It is clear that many are providing that one extra degree of effort to make great things happen.  It is going to be a great school year!!

Have a great weekend! 

Kent

The first two days went very smooth.  This is thanks to all the wonderful staff and students we have in this school district. 

We were lucky to have 6 speakers on Friday to talk with students about different cultures.  South America,  Chile, Japan, Asia, Africa, and Australia were the topics discussed.  The students did a great job listening and participating in the multicultural day. 

It is GREAT to be back!! Amy Sims, Willard Middle School Principal