January 16, 2009

I remember when we returned from Winter Break I said how nice it was to be back into a routine. So much for that! I know these cancellations (although perhaps a welcome additional break) just compact schedules at a very busy time of year. But, as we always have, we’ll figure it out and get it all done.

Several of you have asked me about the state budget cuts and what it will mean to Ohio Hi-Point. All I can say at this point is that the cuts the Governor has made public for the next biennium budget are still “proposed.” However, our Adult Education Department has withstood a series of cuts over the past two years, and I commend Darlene Chiles and her staff for being proactive in absorbing these cuts while still remaining in the black. It hasn’t been without some pain, but this department remains in a position of financial strength. District-wide, we’re certainly looking closely at the overall budget to have a contingency plan in place in case the new cuts should come at us fast and hard (what’s that commercial say—“Life comes at you fast!”) What we don’t know is the amount the cuts will add up to. We’re also hearing recently of possible federal aide, but that is uncertain as well. Governor Strickland will be delivering his State of the State Address on January 28 at noon; perhaps we will have more definitive information after that. What we do know is that we certainly won’t see increases in funding. And what I assure you is that as soon as I know what we’re dealing with, you’ll know.

Our Alumni and Friends Committee met on Wednesday, and we’re well under way with plans for our 35th Anniversary Homecoming plans! Details are being firmed up (stay tuned—Shane will be sharing more), but we definitely will be inducting the next class of Distinguished Alumni into our Showcase of Success. This is such a wonderful way to recognize those who have completed our programs and gone on to notable success, and the winners also serve as shining examples to our current students that they can accomplish great things! Please, if you know of a graduate from 1999 or later who has gone on to distinguished success in his or her career field, go online to fill out a nomination form (or contact Shane Haggerty for a form). We know those distinguished alumni are out there!

January is School Board Recognition Month, and our annual All-Boards Banquet was held on Wednesday evening as a thank-you to the Board Members from all our 17 participating school districts and ESC’s. The weather was lousy and the turnout was small; but those who attended heard a wonderful presentation from our keynote speaker, Logan Co. Sheriff Andy Smith. Andy started out as an education major before veering off into law enforcement, and he really drove home the importance of investing resources into our educational system and our young people. He spent several years heading up the Juvenile Detention Center; and he knows, as we do, that when you work with young people sometimes you win and sometimes you lose. But our youth are always worth the effort! Thanks to my administrative team, Shane Haggerty, and Beth Kennaw for making this event a success.

You couldn’t turn on the TV yesterday or today without hearing about the US Airways plane crash in the Hudson River. What an amazing story! Certainly the pilot is a hero and a perfect example of competent execution under unbelievable pressure. But I’m also struck by the tremendous teamwork that resulted in not one single life being lost. I got chills up my spine watching how quickly those ferryboats were on the spot to rescue passengers. We at OHP know that it takes teamwork to be successful, and this story illustrates that sometimes you start your day not even knowing you’ll be part of the team. But by being watchful to others’ needs, you can play a vital (and maybe even life-saving) role. Let’s all remember that next time we get out of bed!

I hope you’ll all take some time on Monday to commemorate Martin Luther King Day in your own way. This holiday seems especially poignant to me at this point in our nation’s history. We’re facing some of the toughest times, maybe the toughest times, we’ve seen in our lifetimes. But we’re also witnessing some of the most amazing events that should make us proud of our country. The “dream” that Dr. King had has certainly become a reality with our new President being inaugurated next week. Regardless of your political affiliation, what an amazing country we live in where each of us has a voice and can exercise the right to even have an affiliation without fear. That’s cause for celebration!

Have a wonderful weekend and stay warm!