Something special happened this week in the world of comics. Action Comics became the longest running comic and the first series to ever reach the coveted issue #1000. In 1938, Action Comics introduced the world to a new hero called Superman and the comic series has run continuously for the past 80 years. When Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster created the iconic character, the country was still in the grip of the great depression and the world was on the brink of the second world war. He became a symbol of hope that captured the imagination of the public for generations.

One of the reasons that Superman has been able to endure for 80 years is the fact that he has adapted to stay relevant with each new generation. The character may have been born in the comics, but he soon became a staple on radio broadcasts, where he came into the home of millions of Americans. When families starting watching television, George Reeves, flew into homes each week on the small screen as the Man of Steel. Later, the hero made his debut on the big screen with Christopher Reeve. He continues to be portrayed in every medium of entertainment imaginable. Through it all, Superman has become one of the most recognizable characters in the world.

In addition to staying relevant with media and entertainment venues, the character has stayed relevant with society. He started out as social reformer who toppled slum lords and greedy corporations. As the nation reached into space, Superman’s cast of foes became more cosmic in nature. In the current times of political, social, and economic unrest, Superman continues to be just as relevant as ever by representing core values and a symbol of hope.

Now what does any of this have to do with education? Like the character of Superman, educators spend their energy helping others, fighting injustice, and empowering others to reach their dreams. We have also stayed relevant by adapting to the needs of our students and our society by continuously reinventing ourselves and our techniques. While we continually adapt, transform, and reinvent, we also hold firm to our core mission and truth that ALL students can learn and that we will do whatever it takes to reach ALL students. Superman has stood the test of time and continues to inspire young people (and young at heart). Educators have done the same in the real world and to borrow an old phrase, “Real heroes don’t wear capes”. Thanks for being a hero to your students every day!

1938 2018

“If I had to pick a superhero to be, I would pick Superman. He’s everything that I’m not.” – Stephen Hawking

“A lot of people ask me when I do a stunt, ‘Jackie, are you scared?’ Of course I’m scared. I’m not Superman.”– Jackie Chan

“My version of Superman is essentially of a guy who has spent his whole life alone.” – Henry Cavill

Monday, April 23: Celebrate Monday Assembly with Special Guest 9:05 AM
Tuesday, April 24: MET/IEP for N.S. (Benson) 8:15 AM, REED for C.R. (Benson) 2:35 PM, YMAD Ceremony at FHS 6:00-8:00 PM
Wednesday, April 25: Principals Meeting for 5D at Central Office 8:00-10:00 AM, Administrative Professionals Day!!
Thursday, April 26: NO STAFF MEETING, Art Fair (K-4), Music Concert (1st&2nd), Science Fair Displays (Participating Students) 6:00-8:00 PM
Monday, April 30: Student of the Month Assembly 9:05 AM, M-STEP Window Opens for grades 3&4, PTA Meeting 7:00 PM

Thursday, May 3: Staff Meeting(led by Jen Medellin)
Friday, May 11: Jon in Lansing during day for MEMSPA Board of Directors, PTA Spring Fling 6:00-8:00 PM (I will be back for the event)
Friday, May 18: Rotating Subs for Grade Level Grouping Meetings, F&P Data due in Illuminate(K-4)
Monday, May 21: iReadyWindow 3 Opens
Wednesday, May 30: Kindergarten Round Up

Friday, June 1: Garden/Time Capsule Dedication (2:00 PM?)
Sunday, June 3: Family Detroit Tigers Game 1:00 PM Sign Up Genius
Friday, June 8: Field Day
Monday, June 11: 4th Grade Celebration 1:30-3:30 PM (Cirque Amongus)
Tuesday, June 12: Kindergarten Celebration/Music Concert 1:30 PM
Thursday, June 14: All School Assembly 10:00-11:00 AM
Friday, June 15: 4th Grade Clap Out 11:30 AM