You can see the picture of our administrative team taken at Fort Jackson this past Tuesday on the website.  Our purpose in going there was to sharpen our leadership skills and grow as a team.  That happened and so much more.

After arrival, we had a command briefing which provided an overview of the base, what they do and how they do it. We were scheduled for a Teamwork Development Course, but were rained out.  So, we spent some time in their base museum which spanned the wars and conflicts in this country since WWI.  We then saw the young recruits in basic training at the "Victory Tower" where they went up and down a 50 ft. structure on nets, ropes and a climbing wall building strength, self-confidence and overcoming challenges.  Most impactful was the first aid/battlefield simulation in which we entered a mock up of a middle eastern outdoor market that was under fire to provide aid to four of our severely injured comrades; it was dark, smoky, loud and intense.  We enjoyed lunch in the mess hall and saw young recruits carrying their M-16s while they ate.  They really do sing cadences as they march, and they are so young.  Our final activity was in the M-16 laser shooting range.

Several of our administrators shared insights they had gained.  The overriding comment was that we have an even greater appreciation and love for our military; our country should never cut corners on defense.  Soldiers face dangers everyday we cannot imagine. There is no substitute for proper, in-depth training. One must stay calm in stressful situations.  It is good leadership that establishes a goal and then sets out to achieve it.  Our responsibility is to lead and train our teachers to be the best they can be.

It was a rich and powerful experience; I encourage you to ask one of our administrative team members about how it impacted them.