Skip Navigation
Watermark Logo

Back

Impacting Lives for a Lifetime

May 03, 2023
By Dr. Ken Friesen, Superintendent

Without a doubt, teachers are the most amazing people, and they make an incredible impact for good on the lives of their students. It is appropriate that a full week—May 8–12 this year—be set aside at the national level to celebrate and recognize teachers.

Two of my teachers/coaches who come to mind in this moment are my fourth grade teacher, Mr. Frazier, and my high school English teacher and basketball coach, Coach Grant. I have clear memories of Mr. Frazier telling me that he saw great leadership potential in me, causing me to see myself as a leader at a young age. Coach Grant didn’t just tell me that I had leadership potential; he invested in me at a high personal level over an extended time and was extremely influential in my developing into a discerning leader. He became a lifelong mentor, and I still connect regularly with him 50 years after his initial impact on my life. That is what impacting lives for a lifetime looks like. I am certain that current students at CCS, as well as CCS alumni, have similar stories to share about our teachers and coaches.

Knowing you will go above and beyond during the week of May 8-12 to let our teachers know how deeply valued and appreciated they are, I want to also thank you for how well you appreciate and support them every day of the year. How fitting that the National Day of Prayer is Thursday, May 4, just prior to Teacher Appreciation Week. While there will be many things we pray for on May 4, let’s be sure that one area of focus is our amazing staff. Let’s pray God’s blessing and provision for them as they strive to finish this school year well.

In His service,

Ken 
 

Photo of Coach Grant, my cousin and myself during a recent round of golf!