Cairo Association of Teachers - Newsletter

CAT Tracks for May 23, 2005 REG II

Above and beyond the call of duty...

...but then that's Reg!

Reg Weaver, President of the National Education Association, made a return appearance in Cairo, Illinois on the afternoon of May 22, 2005, giving the commencement address for the Cairo High School graduation ceremony. President Weaver had previously visited Cairo in February 2005 to serve as keynote speaker at the dedication ceremonies for the Cairo Community Education Center.

Senior students in attendance at the CEC dedication ceremonies had been impressed by Reg's message and delivery...and spread the word to their classmates. The following week, representatives of the Senior class wrote a letter to President Weaver, requesting that he speak at their graduation. Much to everyone's surprise and delight, Reg immediately replied that he would be honored to do so!

Folks...this IS the President of the National Education Association...an organization of 2.7 million members...with an untold number of districts making constant demands for his attention and presence. To get someone of Reg's stature to visit your community...especially one as small as Cairo...ONCE is a distinct honor. BUT...TWICE...in a matter of 3 months...unheard of! And he didn't just happen to be in the neighborhood. Reg made a special trip from Washington, D.C. to Cairo...and back again...to address the 51 graduating seniors of Cairo High School.

And...how did he do? Well...speaking as one of those who tries daily to capture the attention of today's brand of student...I am humbled. The graduates listened...and expressed their appreciation. BUT...Reg wasn't done yet. Following a much deserved round of applause, Reg descended from the stage to deliver his "Rest if you must...but don't you quit!" speech...going from graduate to graduate, shaking each and every hand. A showman, indeed, but for those of us who know Reg personally...he is the "real deal", sincere in everything he says and does.

So...on behalf Cairo School District Number One, THANK YOU, President Reg Weaver! You have given the Cairo High School Class of 2005 a graduation to remember!