HARLD KELLER

Taking the right track, honoring students who need recognition

When we hear of a “Breakfast of Champions,” the first thought that comes to mind is the honoring of athletes. God knows how many of those I’ve attended! One must admit that we do a great job of recognizing athletic participation and achievement from pre-school through college. We seldom hear of banquets to honor students for their academic achievements. Well, this past Tuesday was an exception to the rule. I had the honor and privilege of attending an Honor Roll “Breakfast of Champions” at Lutcher High School. Jo Ellen Hebert, assistant principal, was the organizer, aided by Gaynell Albert, assistant principal. The occasion was to honor the 227 students who made the honor roll for the first term of the school year. It was held in the school cafeteria and the cafeteria workers performed above and beyond the call of duty in preparing an excellent meal. Superintendent of Schools Ed Cancienne and School Board members Ken Foret of District 2 and Carol Lambert of District 3 were in attendance. Sean Rizzuto opened with a thought for the day, reminding everyone that they were special. All honorees were called up and recognized individually. The seniors were given T-shirts with “2001 Breakfast of Champions” written across the front. Tyra Johnson closed with a message challenging everyone to be more compassionate. During the breakfast, Mrs. Hebert and I shared a few thoughts. I told her that I was reminded of what a football coach told me a couple of years ago. He said that it amazed him how most parents, especially dads, stress athletics in hopes of their child getting an athletic scholarship, when academic scholarships are much more plentiful and profitable. This was the first time in four years that I spoke at Lutcher High School, and I have to say that I was impressed with the spirit that was there Tuesday morning. I spoke with my friend, Ken Foret, after the breakfast, and I said that it looks like good things are happening in the St. James School System under the direction of Superintendent Cancienne and his staff, with the support of the school board. He agreed. If Tuesday was any indication, good things are happening and the children of St. James Parish will benefit the most. HAROLD KELLER writes this column as part of his affiliation with the Get High on Life religious motivational group. Call him at 652-8477.