Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD hosted its annual convocation events on Monday, August 5, bringing together all employees in two spirited celebrations to kick off the new school year.
Held in the Chisholm Trail High School Gym, a morning event with elementary staff and some district wide employees and an afternoon with secondary staff and the remaining district wide employees included an Olympics theme with a variety of performances from students and staff along with commentary aimed at inspiring and uniting the school community.
As employees began to arrive, they were greeted by ²ÝÁñÉçÇø trustees and leadership.
The events began with the Eagle Mountain High School Band, the Knight Brigade, performing the school's fanfare in their first convocation. As they performed, Chisholm Trail High School senior athlete and Junior Olympian, Nia Hoyle, ran in with an inflatable torch and "lit" the cauldron, which was illuminated as she touched it with the torch.
That was followed by the presentation of colors by the ²ÝÁñÉçÇø Air Force JROTC and the national anthem played by the ²ÝÁñÉçÇø staff convocation band.
Then, Dr. Jim F. Chadwell, superintendent, Shawn Bell, director of fine arts, and Carla Hardy, assistant director of fine arts, took the stage as the announcers for the event.
"What a great day to be in the house with such amazing athletes, performers and world-class educators," Chadwell said, setting an enthusiastic tone for the day.
Reflecting on his tenure in ²ÝÁñÉçÇø and his recent retirement announcement, Chadwell added, "It's been an honor to carry the torch the last 14 years, and I know you will continue to carry the torch for the children we serve."
The event featured competitions including principals and other district leaders, like ribbon gymnastics, cornhole and speed walking. Lighthearted, these events drew a lot of laughs. Each competitor received a participation medal from floor correspondent Tricia Leavitt, assistant athletic director.
They were each followed by inspiring student performances, including student gymnasts from around ²ÝÁñÉçÇø, scenes from the musical "The Lion King" performed by middle school students in the ²ÝÁñÉçÇø Broadway Bound summer camp, and a performance by the Boswell High School Drumline. Each of these student groups received a G.O.A.T. medal.
Throughout the convocations, there was a strong emphasis on teamwork and unity.
"In this district, we are proud to tell our community that in our classrooms, we have world-class educators leading the learning with their children," said Chadwell. "In our departments and support roles, we have world-class leaders who give of their expertise to support our schools and classrooms."
Bell echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the power of teamwork.
"We see this throughout athletics to fine arts to professional learning to district events. I’m so proud to call ²ÝÁñÉçÇø my home," he said.
The convocation also celebrated the district's dedication to providing personalized opportunities for all students.
Chadwell highlighted this commitment, stating, "Everyone in this room understands that kids who are involved and engaged have the best opportunities for success. Having a variety of opportunities for students to choose from helps them explore their interests and find their passions."
As the convocation came to an end, Dr. Chadwell expressed his gratitude to the ²ÝÁñÉçÇø community.
"Thank you for choosing ²ÝÁñÉçÇø and for continuing to carry the torch for public education students," he said.
Bell added a heartfelt note of appreciation for Dr. Chadwell's leadership, "On behalf of our district community, I want to thank you for your 14 years of leadership and for sharing your skills, talents and vision with us," before giving Chadwell a G.O.A.T. medal.
The event concluded with a performance by the Chisholm Trail High School Charmers, dancing to the song "Stop this Flame" which includes the lyrics "You'll never stop this flame." Hardy wrapped it up by encouraging everyone to "go out and keep carrying the torch!"
With the new school year on the horizon, ²ÝÁñÉçÇø educators and students are ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead, united by their commitment to fostering a culture of excellence in ²ÝÁñÉçÇø.