Over the last 13 years of your life, your schedule, your next steps and how you manage your time has largely been determined by someone other than yourself. You have attended school where courses and bell schedules have largely dictated how your time and energy was spent. While there have been exceptions to this in the form of elective classes, sports, music, dance, and other extracurricular activities, you have lived in a world of structure. 

In a very short period of time, that will change. Any structure that frames your world will largely be dictated by choices that you make. Choosing a college, deciding on a class schedule, determining where you will work, and all other aspects of your lives will now be decisions that rest on your shoulders. By way of advice, do not take that responsibility lightly. You only get one life. Choose wisely!

There will also be a strong temptation to eliminate all structure from your life and go with the flow. While this may seem like an easy way to live, there are inherent risks along that path and you may not like where the flow takes you. 

So take charge of your life. Make smart, informed decisions and then go to work. Decide where you want to end up and use that as your north star. It is so much easier to make decisions when you know the desired outcome. 

You are an outstanding class of people and I wish you every success and joy in your lives. Remember where you came from and never take that for granted. 

Congratulations, Seniors! Swords Up!

Respectfully, 
Brent Bishop
Director, ALA Ironwood 7-12