Drivers, Start Your Engines

Originally Published March 2023

In April we anticipate the showers that bring May flowers.

In July we enjoy the lazy days of summer.

In October we focus on the colors of fall.

But now, in the middle of winter we may feel the “blahs.”

But let’s remember, we still have a third of the school year to go, and we have so much to accomplish in the time that we have remaining with our students. In fact, now is a good time to gather some inspiration from NASCAR. NASCAR? you may ask. Yes…NASCAR.

The first race in the NASCAR Cup Series is held each February - The Daytona 500. It signifies the official start of the racing season. And it begins with the most famous words in racing, “Drivers, start your engines.” Each race is divided into stages and drivers strive to finish each stage in the best position possible for points, but more importantly, to gain momentum to take into the next stage and eventually toward the checkered flag.

In schools, this is the time of year when preparation for the end of the year begins.  Seniors are making final decisions about what is next: employment, enlistment, or additional education.  State testing is beginning.  And plans are being made for end of year field days, concerts, and celebrations.  Like those drivers at the Daytona 500, we work hard to get to the end of each stage, but we must also complete the race and finish strong. This time is not for slowing down or coasting, because our work doesn’t matter if we don’t finish the race. So, wherever you are in your personal race, take a pit stop to refuel, get fresh tires, then get back onto the track to finish your final laps with energy and passion.