School is Cool Prepares Students for High School

Lincoln - More than 2,300 8th graders from every <?xml:namespace prefix="st1" ns="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags"?>LincolnPublicMiddle School attended the second annual “School is Cool” Celebration held on Monday, Feb. 19 at Lincoln North Star High School. 

 

The event was funded in part by former Husker and current Buffalo Bills standout Chris Kelsay.  The purpose of the assembly is to better prepare 8th graders for the critical transition into high school.  Lincoln Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. Susan Gourley provided a special welcome which was followed by the National Anthem performed by Lincoln’s own No Better Cause. 

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Modeled after the nation’s largest pep rally for education, the “School is Cool” Jam, the “School is Cool” Celebration utilized role-model Husker student-athletes and Miss Nebraska to share valuable lessons about school and life. 

 

Volleyball player and student-of-the-year, Sarah Pavan challenged the 8th graders to dream big and set lofty goals.  Fellow 4.0 student-athlete Dane Todd of the football team told the audience to take pride in their academics and don’t be concerned if you are labeled a “nerd” or “dork,” adding that excellence in school will determine your future success. 

 

Basketball student-athletes Kelsey Griffin and Ryan Anderson shared great messages.  Griffin challenged students to stay focused by using a planner, keeping up with homework and selecting friends with positive goals.  Griffin demonstrated her ability to tune out distractions while sinking a free throw after inviting the students to be loud as well as overcoming the noise of the North Star drum line.  Anderson demonstrated his diverse talents sharing his musical abilities.  He sang a song that he wrote while playing the keyboard.  Anderson emphasized the importance of not being one-dimensional and working hard to develop your skills. 

 

Soccer freshmen Shay Powell and Brittany Lanier, both from the Dallas area, talked about teamwork followed by a juggling demonstration highlighting the importance of cooperation and communication. 

 

Senior hurdler Aaron Ross talked about support systems and overcoming hurdles in life.  “With the proper support from parents, teachers and friends, you can overcome any obstacle you will be faced with in high school and life.”  Ross then showed off his hurdling talents by clearing four high hurdles in impressive fashion. 

 

Redshirt freshman receiver Will Henry from El Paso, Texas talked about the importance of being patient when dealing with change.  “It is hard at times not to get discouraged, but trust the process and know that if you commit yourself to becoming great, good things will happen.” 

 

Miss Nebraska 2006 Molly McGrath shared two important acronyms with the students.  TPD and WRR.  “Think, Plan and Do and Write, Read and Revise.  Write your goals, review them regularly and if need be, adjust them.”  McGrath concluded her presentation by demonstrating her dancing skills.

 

The second annual “School is Cool” Celebration was enjoyed by students and administrators alike.  Nebraska student-athletes have experienced the transition from 8th grade to 9th grade and also from high school to college.  The insights and advice shared by some of Nebraska’s top role-models will hopefully predict continued success for well over 2,000 new 9th graders next fall.