I returned to the General Smallwood Middle School this morning as a guest speaker for the Promotion Ceremony of the 2010 8th Grade Class. I am so impressed with this school’s accomplishments over the last year and of its outgoing 8th Graders. Under the direction of Principal Cynthia Baker, the Charles County Principal of the Year and recipient of a Washington Post Distinguished Educational Leadership Award, the school has done very well. The rightfully proud parents showed respect and enthusiasm for all these wonderful students throughout the ceremony. In my speech, I challenged the class to use this summer to consider how to strengthen and present their character as they enter 9th grade. I also encouraged them to show up for class as a good foundation and find school groups and clubs that would interest them. By joining in they will have the friends and mentors they need to transition into the next phase of their education. I hope they will take me up on this.
My Son is a GSMS 2010 8th grader and I had the privilege and honor of attending the 8th grade promotion ceremony this morning. Your speech was personally touching for me and I felt it was something my son needed to hear. My husband and I pray that our son will rise to your challenge and embrace his freshman year. I could not pass up the opportunity to let you know that I thought your speech was encouraging and on point.
Carla,
I thank you for your very kind comment on my speech. I was so impressed with the students at General Smallwood Middle School that day. I am confident that they will rise to my challenge during their high school experience.
Peter F. Murphy
Charles County, District 28