THE KEY TO SUCCESS

Dear Students,

As we begin yet another school year, I encourage you to start thinking about the quality of life you hope to have. John Maxwell defines success this way:

SUCCESS IS…

knowing your purpose in life, growing to reach your full potential, and sowing seeds that benefit others.

I believe what the author is trying to convey with this quote is that success is a journey throughout life and not a final destination. No matter how long you live or what you decide to do in life, you will never exhaust your capacity to grow toward your potential or run out of opportunities to help others.

Middle school is but one phase of your journey and it is very important that you make the most of all the opportunities provided to you during this time. Middle school can be fun, exciting, and rewarding but it can also be difficult, confusing, and stressful at the same time. Fortunately, you will have many teachers, counselors, administrators, and parents/guardians to help guide you along this part of your journey. Many of these people have already experienced this part of life’s journey and only want what is best for you as you move through it.

I hope that you set goals to become involved during middle school whether it is through sports, music, drama, speech, or any of the many clubs and school-related activities. These activities extend your learning beyond the classroom and research shows that many successful people in life took advantage of extra-curricular participation.

I close this message by extending the best of luck to you as you take the next steps of your journey. My hope is that you will do what is best for you, stay positive, stay focused, and contribute to the benefit of others.

Sincerely,
Mr. Mark Lester, Principal
West Feliciana Middle School