It was now 9:00 p.m. I was just walking out of school for the day with my dogs barking (the kind in my shoes not the ones with tails.) Today we were visited by “the wigs” because one of our All Star students won a contest and will have the honor to present his bill on the floor of the California Assembly Floor. I had worn navy heels much higher than my norm and now my feet were swollen and hurting badly. Although I was in pain, the day had been a good one, and my hurting feet was a small price to pay for the good which happened in the life of this young man today.
Ryan upon first glance is like any other kid, lots of friends, handsome, intelligent beyond his years, but his particular story goes much further. You see, Ryan has been a foster child since age two. He had been moved around all his life and ended up at Royal to finish his education and graduate. We are blessed with a campus of All Star teachers and his insightful history teacher entered her class in a contest “There Ought to be a Law” in which high school students could actually write bills. Ryan won the contest from 600 entries and today was his day to shine. An assembly was scheduled for social studies students to see Ryan receive an award from our state Assemblyman and a smorgasbord of other city and county officials. Following the awards our students were led in a question/answer session with there elected officials. I was especially proud of our moderator, one of our own staff members, who actually made the students feel as if they were participating in a national CNN event.
During the assembly Ryan was given an opportunity to explain his bill to his classmates. Being in the foster system all his life, he understood personally the toil it has on young people. In his case, at a very mature 17 years old he wanted to sign with the Marine Corp so he would be eligible for a $10,000 signing bonus. This would not be an issue for a student living with their families; you get a parent to sign for you... deal done. It was very different in Ryan’s case. In order to obtain consent since he is technically a ward of the state he was required to go before a judge for approval to enlist. Unfortunately, he got a judge that let her political opposition of the war get in the way of common sense and denied permission. Ryan was denied his $10,000 bonus and came home a very disappointed young man. He stated all we wanted is what other kids have, the right for the family who knows him the best to make decisions that directly impact his life. When this contest was announced he found an emotional topic. Standing in a borrowed suit, he stood before his peers and explained his plight. Tearfully, he quickly gave thanks to an amazing Marine recruiter (already mentioned in blog) who supported him throughout his journey. During Ryan's speech, this school administrator could have heard a pin drop in a gym packed with teenagers.
On the way back to the office I was joined by somber colleagues, we discussed what an incredible opportunity for our kids to discuss issues with the movers and shakers in our city and state. I remember a couple of teachers in high school who provided similar opportunities for us. As I look back at the people I graduated with years ago, we are now across the nation experiencing amazing opportunities. My high school was in a rural area, but that didn’t stop my teachers who threw us on busses and took us to the Meccas of politics and culture. This year, one of our government teachers (today’s moderator) donated his time to take students to hear the Republican debates. This pride and dedication to our young minds will be the reason we can rest easy in our rocking chairs and know that the world is in good hands. For those who dedicate their lives to the next generation whether it be in schools, scouts, sports or any other venue … THANK YOU!
