Go Red for Women Day GenerosityContinues Strong in Mesquite ISD

Like most school districts, Mesquite ISD has a high percentage of female employees. And fighting heart disease, the number one killer of women according to American Heart Association, is a movement we fully support. In fact, for several years Mesquite ISD has led the state as the school district giving the most or second most donations on Go Red for Women Day. In 2012, we raised more than $16,000.

The first day of February will be the next Go Red for Women Day, part of a national movement that leads millions of women and men to wear red and commit to fighting this deadly disease. Look for many of our employees to show their support by donning the campaign’s Rock the Beat T-shirt or pin that day.

Since Go Red campaign’s inception a decade ago, tremendous results can be seen. First and foremost, 21 percent fewer women are dying from heart disease. Learn more about this campaign and its impact at http://goredforwomen.org/wearredday/about/

Mesquite ISD’s Board of Trustees:Committed to Student Achievement

A special student artwork display from several of our campuses will be just one of the ways the Mesquite ISD Board of Trustees is recognized at this week’s monthly meeting. January is School Board Recognition Month across the state of Texas after all.

Our Board members contribute countless hours each year governing by listening to staff and student concerns, recognizing outstanding programs and students, and much more. Members also attend seminars and training sessions to keep abreast of state and federal regulations and trends in educational leadership. They stay involved in community activities and spend many hours in the schools and at extracurricular events.

And talk about dedication. The seven members on our Board of Trustees have a combined 84.5 years of service to our school district.  Dr. Cary Tanamachi has served on our Board for a total of 26 years; President Robert Seward, 19 years; Gary Bingham and Kevin Carbo, 16 years; Vice President Phil Appenzeller, three years; Secretary Christina Hall, two and a half years; and Archimedes Faulkner two years, respectively. It’s impressive to note that Gary Bingham and Robert Seward are Mesquite High School graduates, too.

I am so proud to work with such a committed group and so thankful these professionals have chosen to offer their time and talents to Mesquite ISD.  The influence of their love of learning and concern and caring for our students, staff and the community should not be underestimated.

Your 2013 “Un” Resolution

“Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else. “

Judy Garland

If you’re not old enough to remember 7UP’s “Uncola” advertising strategy in the early 1970s, it’s easy to reference its success online. This memorable campaign set 7UP apart from its competition and became part of a counter culture that symbolized being true to yourself.

As we look ahead to 2013 and set personal goals or make resolutions, try not to forget what’s great about you.  Take a moment to reflect on your specialness.

I recently read an article that recommended writing down three traits you like about yourself. Not accomplishments or achievements, but deep personality types of things. Mine are: 1) passionate about time with my family; 2) focused on student excellence; and 3) appreciative of our staff.

Share your “three things” if you are willing. And keep them in mind in the times you are struggling.

Here’s to an even greater appreciation of you in 2013.