The Observation Deck

Had the opportunity to sit in on a couple classes today dealing with some
tough subjects, and some pretty "edgy" conversations.

DAMN!

These kids were pretty damn smart, very engaged, and light years beyond
their years and experience!

Just like little humans, but generally smarter, kinder and more open than
most humans I get to deal with.

Seriously, standing ovation to the educators, students and parents of those
students. I really have a pretty good outlook for down the road now.

While we often focus on the negatives, the schools, teachers and students,
are really working it.


.

_________________
Jim O'Bryan
Lakewood Resident

"The very act of observing disturbs the system."
Werner Heisenberg

"If anything I've said seems useful to you, I'm glad.
If not, don't worry. Just forget about it."
His Holiness The Dalai Lama

Thanks, Jim.

We are indeed blessed to have a wonderful public school system!

Matt

_________________
"Thank you to the publishers of the Observer and the readers of this forum for giving me a place to share my opinion." At-Large Lakewood City Councilwoman Monique Smith.

"Fiddle while Rome burns? Durn tootin' I will." Gary Rice.

Most folks have not been inside to see it, but what you saw, Jim, is the everyday norm.

You know I am seeing that quickly. I cannot think of one negative experience I have
had in the schools or with students in recent memory. Reflections was, as always, a
fun night to celebrate talent in the schools. This class experience was very good,
lunch at the Ranger Cafeteria, the hits just keep on coming.

Thank you Ed for your dedication and hard work over the decades in both the schools
and on the beat as a police officer.

And thank you for coming back to the Deck.

Welcome home.

.

_________________
Jim O'Bryan
Lakewood Resident

"The very act of observing disturbs the system."
Werner Heisenberg

"If anything I've said seems useful to you, I'm glad.
If not, don't worry. Just forget about it."
His Holiness The Dalai Lama

That's why I moved back to Lakewood. Nickie Antonio, her partner and I were all looking at different suburbs and their school systems, years ago and picked Lakewood. Fine schools, walkable for kids, great library and more friendly to kids from LGBT families. Our kids all thrived here.

I hope the same for the other generations coming up. Sounds like it's going well. That makes me proud.

_________________
"When I dare to be powerful -- to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid." - Audre Lorde