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Congratulations BHS Class of 2009!
 Just a few weeks ago, on June 6th, 2009, President Barack Obama visited Normandy France, to mark the 65th anniversary of D-Day. As a lover of history, I thought it was extremely important to highlight the lessons learned on that significant day as many high school seniors prepare for graduation and life beyond high school.
During his visit, President Obama stated, "Friends and veterans, what we cannot forget - what we must not forget - is that D-Day was a time and a place where the bravery and selflessness of a few was able to change the course of an entire century." What you may not realize is that the majority of young men who succeeded with changing the tide of history on D-Day were the same age that our high school seniors are today.
I share this story with you, first, because it is essential that we have learned the lessons of this historic day. We must never forget what your grandfathers have sacrificed to give you the privilege of living and breathing the freedom of America on a daily basis. This diploma that our seniors will receive is a symbol of the gift that their hard fought battles have won for you. They have bled and suffered so that we can continue to provide a free education for every child. We must cherish this gift and never take it for granted. Always remember that your 17, 18 and 19 year old ancestors accepted this challenge and were responsible for changing the tide of history to bring freedom to oppressed nations. Your marching orders are so much simpler: Remember the greatness of your nation. Remember the strength and courage that is the blood of your family. Remember the code of ideals of a nation that bequeathed you with the riches of unlimited opportunity. Harness these precious gifts to go forward and to take a stand somehow and somewhere to create your generation's version of liberty and justice for all.
With Bear Pride,
Dr. Michael D. Kuchar
Superintendent of Schools
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