Symbolism, ceremony, signatures — the stuff of which commitments are made.
For the first time at Falls High School, commitment is what is being formally asked of every freshman who expects to graduate in 2013.
The Class of 2013 participated Wednesday in a new initiative — the Legacy Program which debuted in the FHS cafeteria. It unfolded in a ceremony whereby each freshman was summoned by FHS Principal Tim Everson to shake the hand of interim Superintendent Kevin Grover before signing their commitment to graduate. All of the students inscribed their names on a brocade banner which will hang at the school throughout their high school careers.
The classmates and several parents congregated to listen to a trio of speakers who emphasized that while every student has the right to receive a diploma — it must be earned, and it does require focus and work.
“This is another step in the journey towards graduation,” Grover said in his opening remarks. He asked two things of the freshmen: Plan your future; and remember the “class” in Class of 2013.
“Look further than your sophomore year,” Grover said, adding that a journey must be charted if destinations are to be met.
Grover also asked the students to lean on, and encourage each other as a class. He reminded them to also use the FHS staff, their families and members of the community as resources to reach their goals.
“I expect to see all of you at the ceremony in 2013,” Grover concluded.
Adam Bartelt spoke last. He represents Minnesota Graduate Services of Baxter, Minn., which started the recognition program. Bartelt also handles the sales of the FHS class ring, the longevity (since 1924) of its unique design the greatest of any school ring in the United States.
“We’re here to give you the correct information,” Bartelt stated, following his request that the students commit to graduating. He informed them of their responsibility to be prepared for the MCA required testing which is imperative for graduation. The 28-year-old explained that he didn’t pass his testing the first time and that freshmen should make it a priority.
He reminded the classmates to pay attention to the core classes needed, at the time they are needed, to avoid disappointment when credits aren’t in order for a particular avenue of study.
“And don’t be afraid to ask for help,” he said. “We want to see you make it to graduation.”
Bartelt concluded by stressing that the freshmen should remember to have fun throughout high school. “Start enjoying this,” he said, noting that 10 years later, he realizes how quickly it passed.
Bartelt told The Journal that the commitment program was originally offered in the southern states, where, “unfortunately there are very poor graduation rates.” Although, the percentage of high school graduates is better in Minnesota, his company and the school still saw the opportunity to tailor the program to offer guidance. Both institutions are dedicated to helping kids graduate, he said.
“(The program’s) major features are preparation and commitment,” Bartelt noted. “We want them to know what’s to come, and to think about the standards for graduation — expectations, requirements and demands.”
