Dr. Ralph Poteet: An Icon for Leadership

This weekend an icon for leadership in education passed away after a brief illness. Dr. Ralph Poteet served our district and community for 22 years as superintendent. During his tenure, his remarkable vision for MISD began to take shape. By the time he retired in 1986, our district had grown to 29 schools, including his namesake, Dr. Ralph H. Poteet High School, our fourth high school. We continue to enjoy his other accomplishments such as KEOM, instructional television and the Russell Planetarium.

Through his accomplishments so great and ahead of his time, Dr. Poteet remained a humble, selfless supporter of our district. His attendance at multiple school activities spoke volumes to the students who witnessed his deep commitment to education. The words “Respect, Honor and Pride,” reflecting his initials, mark the halls of Poteet High School. They were carefully chosen because those words personify this gentleman to his very core. Needless to say, we will miss him, and we hold on to the vision of his leading in the 2012 graduating class to begin its Commencement Ceremony. His life has touched us all and will continue to do so for decades. 

Thank you, Dr. Poteet, for establishing the standard of excellence through a time of challenge.

Labor Day Means More Than Time Off School

Since 1884, we Americans have been observing our Labor Day federal holiday on the first Monday in September. The first Labor Day, however, took place on a Tuesday in 1882. Every year since, it has become a time for our nation to pay tribute

to the contributions and achievements of American workers.

Here’s a quote from the Albert Einstein that seems especially fitting:

“A hundred times every day I remind myself that my inner and outer life depend on the labors of other men, living and dead, and that I must exert myself in order to give in the same measure as I have received and am still receiving.”

For me, Labor Day also gives me a chance to reflect on the history of our great nation. The American worker created so much of our strength, freedom and leadership. This day of commemoration also symbolizes the end of summer for many Americans.

What does the holiday mean to you?