The array of testimonials received form students, staff and parents has been exceedingly heart-warming and encouraging.>
AASC put me on the right track in life ... from something fun to do at school, to showing me that I could accomplish things I set my mind to. I have never been so surprised as when I was announced as the winner in 8th grade. What a shock! After it, I really started to break out of my introverted shell. One week of 8th grade set me onto a new path in life.
My experience doing the All-American Classic was AMAZING! I never thought I would win overall. I was so shocked when my name was called to receive my jacket and plaque. I had a lot of fun with all of the different activities. I hope next year’s participants do as well. I will never forget this year!
Whenever the words, “All-American” are used, there is an automatic sense of something special and prestigious. That certainly was true with the special program that was instituted at Bartlett Junior High here in Porterville, California a few years ago. Richard Schlagel, the principal of that school, devised a program that brought out the very best among the students there, and encouraged them to strive to become an All-American in a competitive environment. The idea of incorporating scholastic achievement with athletic excellence was an encouraging goal for the best of the students and the heights many of them attained were amazing. My son was one of the participants and a winner of some medals. He has often said that was one of his favorite competitions among all of those he competed in throughout his educational experiences. I feel that a program such as that should be a part of the school year for students at all grade levels, and it obviously produced improved grades and athletics at Bartlett. The model for the program of Dick Schlagel’s is one that would fit any school.
The highlight of my middle school experience was the All-American Competition. Combining athletics and academics made for a competition like none other. It granted the opportunity for any student to medal in one of the events while some students took the motivation to excel in all in order to compete for the coveted All-American crown. 28 years ago I participated and I still have vivid memories of myself participating in some of the events and I also still have my medals. I think the concept is fantastic and highly recommend all schools to host an All-American Competition.
The All-American Student Classic was a huge success at Pioneer Middle School. Having students participate in both academic and athletic events gives students many opportunities to excel and then be recognized at the Awards Assembly. Students and staff thoroughly enjoyed the week and I would say, without a doubt, the competition was one of the highlights of the school year. Students are already asking when our next Student Classic is beginning. I would recommend any school to host an All-American Student Classic.
At the end of the summer session students came together for testing and two great days of athletic competitions. It was fun to see them cheering-on one another. The smiles on the winners’ faces on awards day showed the pride they had in their accomplishments. I look forward to having the All-American competition again next year!
The All-American Classic was a huge success. Our students are already talking about next year’s event!
The All-American Classic was a great way for students to be recognized and gain self-confidence..
What a way to bring the year to an end! Administration, the Team who pulled it off, the students who participated, the staff and the rest of the school watching made it possible to pull off such a successful week! Fun was had by all. I saw a competitive nature come out that I can hopefully foster from Day One of the next school year. Participating in the All-American Classic is an event I hope to be involved in for many years to come! Challenging the students academically and athletically brought out the competitor in all! Eagle Pride!!
Everyone has something that they shine at, said Craig Harrill, a fifth grade teacher. “The All-American Student Classic lets everyone have a chance to shine and motivates the entire school to push and develop life and academic skills for all of the students – not just the overall winners. It is a really good social program for any school.
Today was an amazing day at Wilson Middle School in Exeter, CA. The entire morning was dedicated to celebrating our amazing students in the All-American Student Classic. Unlike past AASC events at Wilson where the students take part in physical challenges during their PE classes, our entire student classes; the entire school was out on the fields today to either compete or cheer on their peers.
Today is a great day!” said Austin Hardiman. His favorite event is the obstacle Course.
It was an AWESOME DAY!” exclaimed Cole Griffin right after the morning events.
Mrs. Henderson shared how great it is to see so many kids supporting one another during the events. “I love it! We have some great kids!
From an email to the staff at Wilson Middle School:
I couldn’t be more proud of how the AASC turned out today! I have heard so many positive things about it. Many thanks to the PE team and to everyone who contributed to the process. Congratulations on a job well!