“Once a BRAVE, Always a BRAVE!”

Tradition is defined as “the handing down of information, beliefs, and customs by word of mouth or by example from one generation to another without written instruction.”  In my opinion, traditions are so important to build a culture where each person belongs and understands what that means- “to belong.”  I want to thank the Community Education Foundation for starting a new tradition today that will continue in years to come.  What began as an idea to “connect” incoming CISD students with outgoing CISD students was a true blessing to see in action today.  It would rank up there really high as one of the highlights I have had the opportunity to witness that I think truly encompasses the core values that are important in CISD.

One thing that I know from being an Aggie is that experiences span across time and generations.  When we hire graduates from Texas A&M, I know firsthand the journey they’ve traveled (although, I’m a little bit older, cough, cough.)  Traditions provide that common bond in many tradition-rich institutions.  That experience doesn’t have to wait until college though.  We have traditions in CISD that are so commonplace people don’t even stop long enough to realize it.  Visit Edge MS during the week before Thanksgiving and you will see our Senior Citizen Club eat Thanksgiving Lunch and be served by our Student Council members.  Does that happen everywhere?  The answer is “no.”  Traditions are alive and well in CISD and we are trying to start new ones that have the ability to survive the test of time.

Project “Once a Brave, Always a Brave” was a huge success this week.  On Monday, Seniors received their Class of 2015 t-shirts provided at no-cost by the Community Education Foundation.  They were reminded of the importance of being leaders and positive role models in the community.  Today, 7 outstanding students leaders from CHS visited Kindergarten classrooms at NeSmith Elementary and passed out the same t-shirt, except they are Class of 2027!

This was not a simple t-shirt exchange. From now on, this is an important component of our CISD Character Education Program.  Each Senior explained what it means to be a “Brave” or “Lady Brave.”  Ask your Kindergarten student about the letters of B-R-A-V-E:

B-e proud to be a Brave and Lady Brave!

R-espect yourself and others!

A-ttitude, Have a positive one and make a difference!

V-alue your education!

E-ffort, Give 100% everyday!

What a rewarding experience!  I can tell you that from driving the suburban back to CHS, our Seniors gained as much from this leadership experience as our K classes.  Thanks to these Seniors for being ambassadors in our program:  Nick Brophy, Adrian Escandon, Leticia Gonzales, Lauren Bruffett, Jonathan Strebeck, Vanessa Cortez, and Baylee Rinks.

No matter the age or grade, just remember “Once a BRAVE, Always a BRAVE!”

Cole McClendon, Ed.D.

Superintendent