Principal’s Corner by John Double

 

There are times I find myself reflecting back on all the things that have positively influenced my educational path. These include people I never knew and communities I never thought I would call home. I’m sure many of us have similar pathways, if we stop to reflect upon our own educational experiences.

When I think back to my Pre-K-12 education, there are many memories that come to mind. The buildings I attended weren’t new, but the school district and community built buildings well before my arrival into the world so I would have a place to go to school and learn, allowing me to shape my future. The newest of the buildings I attended is now over 50 years old, while another closed after I graduated. I don’t recall if there was a building referendum at the time, however, I do know the building still stands and is still providing a location for students to learn and grow.

In my professional years in schools, there are some similarities. Everywhere I’ve worked, the buildings were all there well before my arrival and, in many cases, well before I was born. The newest of these buildings in my career was our Albert Lea High School. It is a beautiful building with so many great things happening there. While I have no children of my own, I still feel a sense of pride walking into the building and knowing our community built our school.

Now we have the opportunity to pass something forward to the generations of students who will call Albert Lea their home in the coming years. In May, there is a referendum to help upgrade our Hammer Complex facilities and to add a much-needed gym space at Halverson Elementary School. While I have no children of my own to use these facilities, I know there is a distinct need for these updates, addressing things that include access, accessibility and safety.

Someone provided me with the buildings where I learned, the sports facilities where I participated and the facilities where I work to this day. Take a moment to reflect on your educational experiences with facilities you attended. Did someone pay it forward to you? Many people paid it forward to me and I believe it is still my turn to pay it forward to the next generation.

John Double is the vice principal of Southwest Middle School.