As we move into the last weeks of school and the last two weeks of PIAA spring championships, a couple items have surfaced that I believe are important to note. These are in no particular order, but I believe merit mention because of what they are.

Last weekend, we recognized Memorial Day to honor all the men and women who have served in our armed forces that have made our country safe and free as a democracy. Here's a salute to all of them as well as many of our schools, their students, their bands, drill teams, and all school sponsored individuals that participated in Memorial Day parades and activities. Your dedication, sacrifice and perseverance have given us an opportunity to live a life free as a citizenry.

As part of that service to communities, here's a shout out to all of the local PIAA officials' chapters that without any recognition, or fanfare, support their communities in initiatives from donations to health care research, various scholarships, funding of organizations, and provide assistance to those in need. Without singling out specific groups, we have in each and every one of our 12 PIAA districts, groups of individuals that are willing to step forward and contribute to support all people, schools and their communities. Thank you one and all.

Finally, on Friday, PIAA announced its partnership with Special Olympics to work with our membership to provide opportunities for those students, who may not be able to participate in the traditional athletic program, to be able to experience the lessons and values of educational based athletics. This is a great initiative and one which both groups are very proud. We join many other states in developing athletic opportunities for all students.

What a great week.

Honoring those who have made us what we are; many groups continually supporting the ideals of those who came before us by their continued community support; and we continue to work together to make all students a part of what we do.

That folks is a great week!

Interscholastic athletics; teaching life lessons through athletic participation.