August 14 – the Richardson ISD journey continues. The class of 2019 ventures into kindergarten classes with wide eyes and unlimited potential. At Lake Highlands High School, the class of 2007 begins the final steps toward graduation with pride and confidence.
For our family, this marks our final year as parents and students in RISD schools. From Meredith’s first moment in Mrs. Portugal’s kindergarten class at Wallace Elementary in 1990 to handing Oz his diploma next May, the adventure of public schools continues to be an incredible ride.
The year will undoubtedly contain bittersweet moments, but our emotions are more focused on reflections of exploration, growth and friendships. We fondly remember influential teachers and caring staff members who helped shape our children’s lives. We cherish the community of neighbors and friends, old and young alike, who provided advice and support as we strived to “do the right thing.” We exhale with near exhaustion as we remember the countless meetings, events, rehearsals, performances, practices, games, field trips, assemblies, carpools and fundraisers. We search for space in our closets and storage boxes that are full of Wildcat gear, T-shirts, newsletters, Tuesday envelopes, drawings, photographs, uniforms, costumes, homework and projects.
We already have confirmation that RISD prepares children to not only succeed in school but to succeed in life. Meredith is a senior at the University of Texas at Austin, and her RISD foundation readied her for academic rigor and success. Moreover, she relies upon the traits, support network and high expectations instilled from growing up in a loving community. This same foundation provides comfort and confidence to our family as Oz explores his options and determines the university he will attend and the course of studies he will pursue.
The bottom line is that RISD students are equipped with the necessary “knowledge” tools to step boldly beyond high school, whether into higher education, the workforce or the military. Academic studies have provided a foundation for a life of learning, and extracurricular activities have encouraged teamwork and creativity and broadened horizons.
Lake Highlands children also benefit from living in an area that mirrors the diversity beyond our neighborhood. The degree to which they find happiness, peace and contentment is now in their hands.
I encourage you to support our neighborhood children and watch them with pride…in Lake Highlands and beyond.
See you at school.
