She was only the 16th woman to ever be issued a pilot's license. She was a pioneer in aviation and became the first female to cross the Atlantic Ocean piloting a plane. She went on to break many flight records during her lifetime. Of course, we know her as Amelia Earhart. Most people talk about her amazing feats as a pilot and rightly so. I also want to point out what it took for her to be able to accomplish her goals and achieve her dreams. Before she became a pilot, she worked several jobs just to save enough money to pay for flying lessons. She worked as a truck driver, stenographer, and photographer earning the money. After earning her pilot's license, she continued to work multiple jobs and save money so she could buy her own used plane. She became one of the best known pilots the world would know but she had to work at it.
The next story also involves a pilot. At 10 years old, he started cutting grass so he could earn enough money to buy a model plane. At fifteen, he worked 3 jobs at 40 cents per hour to pay for flying lessons. At 16, he earned his pilot's license. At 30, he had tested 200 different aircraft and set the record for going faster and higher than any pilot had gone before. By the time he turned 39, Neil Armstrong floated down a ladder, took a small step, and began walking on the moon. It wasn't just the one small step that got him to the moon, it was the thousands that came before it.
Everyone has goals and dreams they wish to accomplish. I share these two stories because they are perfect examples of what it takes to achieve what we set out to do. Both of these individuals developed a strong work ethic early on in their life that prepared them to do great things. At Perry Central, we have great opportunities for you to begin developing a strong work ethic through our Work Ethic Certification and Commodore Pride programs. Beginning your junior year, you have the chance to earn a certification that has been recognized by the governor's office and local employers. If you want more information about this, please stop by the office and see me.
In closing, I want you to think about a few reflective questions and ask yourself the following: What kind of work ethic do I have? How can I develop a good work ethic? How can a good work ethic help me achieve my goals?
Here are the latest Commodore Pride standings. Remember there are still several chances to earn points for your grade level. The Freshmen and Juniors are trying to runaway with it this quarter!
12th- 261
11th- 910
10th- 335
9th- 880
8th- 513
7th- 355
Show your Commodore Pride!
Mr. Zellers
References:
Meltzer, B. (2010). Heroes for My Son. New York: Harper Collins.
