Clear Eyes. Full Hearts. Can’t Lose.

 

One of television’s most critically acclaimed series of the early 2000’s depicted trials, tribulations, and celebrations of a fictional Texas high school football team, “the Dillon Panthers,” and their quest for a state championship title. Players on the team lived by the mantra, Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can’t Lose. 

Clear Eyes. – Stay above emotion and find a way to get to your goal.

Full Hearts. – Be brave – even when you are afraid. Know you have given your all.

Can’t Lose. – If you do this, you will win every time – even if you lose on the scoreboard.

Under the hot sun of an August day, Wylie ISD teachers opened their classrooms and their hearts to join the front lines and educate and care for our kiddos. Through spikes in positive cases, learning how to teach in completely different ways, caring for the sick, and caring for each other, these brave souls made it to December, full of the same faith and hope in our kids, and in each other, that they have always had. It has been truly remarkable to witness.

Were they scared? Yes. So was the superintendent. Are they tired? I do not recall a more emotionally or physically drained group of people at this point of the year. Did they do their jobs well?  They excelled, and so did our students.

While many districts across America have experienced massive decreases in student enrollment, passing grades, and a sense of hope, Wylie ISD has experienced higher attendance than last year, accounted for nearly every student on our rosters, achieved on the sports fields and in the concert halls, and maintained student achievement in reading and math. These are staggering results from a team of folks who have been pushed to the limit. I am confident that even the Dillon Panthers would be jealous of our success. With the love, hope, and commitment of these amazing educators, we have made it through one of the most challenging semesters in the history of public education, the Wylie Way. 

Although it’s been a challenge, we have pushed through with grit and love. That’s what we do in Wylie. That’s what makes us special. I am so proud of you for the fortitude and grace that you have shown this year. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. 

Clear Eyes. Full Hearts. Can’t Lose.