Some might say that this school year has flown by as others argue the weeks have been interminable and prolonged. Nevertheless, we are approaching the final weeks of the semester and the upcoming holiday breaks. On today’s discussion of 10 Minutes with Admin, Dan Bollinger, Palisade High School’s principal will share his insight to upcoming events and pending occasions he is excited for.
Winter sports officially start November 18th which raises excitement from both students and adults. Mr. Bollinger states, “I look forward to the start of all sports and I enjoy seeing who gets involved in them. I think many people know how passionate I am about seeing students involved, and whether that is performing arts or athletics, whatever it is, being involved in finding your niche is really fun to discover.”
Though the upcoming holidays bring a major focus on family and celebration, it is vital to note the poverty and upset that comes with it. Many people don’t get to enjoy the spirit of the holidays as there are financial issues or a disconnect with family. With this, there are multiple drives that Palisade High School puts on such as food drives and coat drives. Mr. Bollinger exclaims, “I would really like to get more involved in the idea of giving back. I think it is very important for our community and for our students, and I think we could all get more involved in the coat drives and the food drives. I would like to see involvement without incentivizing it, so getting more involved in it because it is the right thing to do and it helps other people is what I would like to see. Sometimes we incentivize it with free lunch for the class who raises the most canned foods but I’d like to see how we can internally motivate students.”
Another event that PHS students are looking forward to is Vibrant Volleyball, a glow in the dark volleyball tournament that helps raise money for Student Council. Mr. Bollinger says, “Vibrant volleyball should be a lot of fun and I hope that the kids really enjoy it and are well-behaved while participating and I’m excited to see what it looks like.” This busy time of year has many merriment activities but it also has stress inducing tasks. Mr. Bollinger states, “We are getting close to a lot of things happening with seniors. FAFSA is opening up December 1st for seniors, so filling out your financial aid and getting help in the counseling office to fill those documents out is really important.” As we navigate the final weeks of the semester and gear up for the holiday season, let’s remember the importance of community and involvement. Go Bulldogs!
