Message from the Superintendent WArWicK puBlic schools Dear 2023 Graduates,

The Warwick Community is thrilled to celebrate you and all of your accomplishments that you have made over the years in high school. You worked hard and persevered in academics, sports, arts, clubs and community service projects to successfully complete high school. I am asking you to now take a moment to thank the people who helped you on this voyage: your teachers who educated and challenged you, your family who encouraged you and your friends who supported you.

My words to you today focus on courage. The meaning of courage is to have the mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.

When I was younger, one of my favorite movies was “The Wizard of Oz”. During the movie a character was introduced called the Cowardly Lion. It was clearly obvious that the Cowardly Lion did not have confidence and did not believe in himself so he thought that he was a coward. By the end of the movie the Cowardly Lion performs some brave acts without realizing he had the courage and strength to do so.

As you move into the next phase of your life whether it is continuing your schooling, becoming part of the workforce or joining the armed forces, you will need courage. Life is full of challenges, risks, unexpected turns of events and opportunities that require you to step out of your comfort zone. Courage will help you face adversity which ultimately will lead you to grow as a person and achieve success.

I was recently inspired by a story that I saw on the news about a boy who had the determination and courage to attend his 8th grade graduation. Xavier Jones was all set to graduate from Yeatman Middle School in St. Louis, Missouri. The graduation was being held at Harris Stowe University which is over six miles from Xavier’s home. When he learned that his grandfather’s car broke down, Xavier was determined to cross the stage, just like this one that you are about to cross today, and receive his diploma. He found the courage to walk over six miles to the ceremony. The President of Harris Stowe University was so impressed with his dedication that she awarded him a full scholarship that included tuition and books. As you sit here today, think about your own determination and perseverance, some obstacles you may have overcome and how these have shaped who you are today. Take these lessons with you into this next phase of your life.

I challenge you to develop and sustain courage by doing the following things.

• Face difficult and challenging situations

• Speak up for yourself. Do not be afraid to go against the status quo or to have difficult conversations.

• Stand up for your values and beliefs

• Set lofty goals

• Take responsibility for your actions - every mistake is an opportunity to learn and grow

• Try something new that is out of your comfort zone

• Most importantly, you should always believe in yourself.

Courage lives within all of us. (as the wizard eventually explained to the Cowardly Lion in the Wizard of Oz).... It is not represented by a special medal that you proudly wear on your chest. Courage is an extremely important quality that will help lead you to a successful and happy life. It is a positive attribute which helps you achieve your goals. Embrace courage to face your fears, overcome challenges and accomplish your dreams.

As Winston Churchill so wisely stated, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts”

Congratulations to all of you and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

lYnn dAMBruch, M.ed. superintendent, Warwick public schools