It is really hard to believe that 2007 is almost over and 2008 is just around the corner.  December, the month that our children think will never come, is here.  The other amazing thing is that the 2007-2008 school year is almost half over, with our high school students taking finals before the semester ends December 19, 2007.  My how time continues to fly by so quickly!

One of my goals this year and last year is and was to visit every classroom.  You know, students have a way of keeping up humble.  Most of my visits so far this school year have been to our elementary schools, and the younger students are excited because “Rudolph” is coming to visit.  They are so disappointed when I show up and I’m not the real “Rudolph”!

December is usually a month of reflection for many of us as we look back on the past year and the many ups and downs that occur in our lives.  Hopefully, we will remember the good times and not dwell on the negative things that may have been difficult to endure.  Many of our school family members have suffered illnesses, loss of loved ones, and other trying experiences.  Going through these experiences has demonstrated how important faith, family and friends are in our lives and how having that and them has helped us through these difficult situations.  Please remember those less fortunate folks, especially during this Christmas season.  

Congratulations are certainly in order for the Benton High School football team and their quest to play for the State Championship in New Orleans, December 7-8.  Congratulations to Coach Mitch Downey, his coaching staff, the football team, student body, faculty and staff for another superb job of representing Benton High School and the Bossier Parish School System in such an exemplary manner.

Our Board will be honoring students at the Board meeting on December 4th who were chosen as winners in the annual “Letters to the Front” contest in which Bossier Parish students submitted over four thousand letters (4,000) to our service men and women.  Thank you to Lt. Colonel (Ret.) George Finck for spearheading this endeavor, and a special “thank you” to the teachers and students who worked so hard on this project.

Christmas has come early for all of us that are LSU fans and we wish the Tigers the best in their championship game against Ohio State. 

Our wish is that this Christmas Season will be the best one you and your families have ever experienced!  MERRY CHRISTMAS!   HAPPY NEW YEAR!