Support our schools as we aim to finish strong

Our spring semester is solidly underway, and we are moving into what is typically the busiest part of our entire school year.

Spring sports are getting their seasons started, which means games, matches and meets will be taking place multiple days a week now. Our fine arts department will be preparing for spring musicals and programs. Our students and teachers are busy each day preparing for standardized testing and working on ways to improve and grow from where they were last year. Everyone is starting to see the proverbial “light at the end of the tunnel” as this school year inches towards its conclusion at the end of May.

For those who are part of RCS, my advice when we hit this time of year is to dig in and focus on meeting those goals that have been set. It’s easy to want to coast when the end of something is in sight, but there’s something so important about finishing strong and taking pride in a job well done.

I can truly say this idea is embraced at RCS, and I’m always so proud of what we’re able to accomplish – especially when we focus on the task in front of us.

For those who are in the community, my advice is to get plugged in to what’s going on at our schools! We pride ourselves at RCS on having such a supportive and involved community that truly cares about our schools. We see the impact it makes when our community shows up for our students, athletes, teachers, coaches and more. A huge cheering section can turn the tide of a big game. Encouraging comments on a social media post about academic achievements can serve as motivation to keep learning and growing. A standing ovation at the end of a performance can encourage students to continue pursuing their passion and talents. Seeing familiar faces in attendance at different events can make such a difference to students who need to know they matter.

So please, jump in and support these amazing students and teachers at RCS! We can’t tell you the impact it has on achievement, growth and making sure we finish the year strong.

As always, it’s GREAT to be a Golden Tiger!

Heath Grimes is superintendent of Russellville City Schools. He and his wife Amy have three daughters: Leah, Halle and Erin.