September 11

This year, our first fall sports assembly fell on September 11 and the students wanted to do something to not only remember fallen heroes, but to celebrate living everyday heroes. We had one of the very best assemblies student council has ever put together. Teachers have been emailing over the weekend to say how much they enjoyed the assembly. Besides the introduction of the fall sports teams and a great script, we brought in many everyday heroes to recognize. Former 2002 quarterback, Nathan Borquez, rode in with fellow DPS officers on their motorcycles to the tune of "Bad Boys". They rode right out onto the gym floor with sirens blaring. They had a small speaking part in the assembly. Then, we brought in some Glendale firefighters and six Glendale police officers. Finally, we brought in our NJROTC commanding officers. These men and women were given engraved dog tags with a message of appreciation for all they do everyday. Additionally, all the teachers were asked to stand and were applauded for their daily sacrifices on behalf of the students of Apollo. It just gave everyone warm fuzzies to be in the gym that day. What a wonderful reminder of all the good in the world.

That started the weekend off well. It was followed by a football win and a successful after game dance. Saturday night was even better. Our family got to attend the baptism of a former student into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. During the program, there was a great talk given by another one of my student's parents on baptism, a talk on the Holy Ghost, and a great musical number by a young male choir. There were many students of different faiths included in the choir. What a wonderful reminder to Don and I and to our children of the covenants we made at baptism. Life is good.