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Dear Alumni , Parents , and Friends of Thornton Academy ,
As the conclusion of another school year draws near , Thornton Academy is preparing for the numerous recognition ceremonies that celebrate student achievement every spring . These gatherings highlight the best of what our students have accomplished in our classrooms , on the athletic fields , and on the stage .
Students whose grades are consistently excellent , who earn the leading roles and make the big plays have undoubtedly worked hard . They are leaders of the student body ; we are proud of them , and they deserve the acclaim . But there are many students whose profound personal achievements often occur with little fanfare . We are proud of them as well .
At Thornton Academy , we advocate for a broader understanding of “ achievement .” Exemplary grades and commendable performances are easy to notice and exciting to celebrate , but many TA students persist despite failures and setbacks . We have students who set and reach remarkable goals even while navigating challenging home situations , and those who make progress in the face many other difficult odds . They also are achievers , and we honor their efforts .
Small but steady opportunities for achievement occur every day . Harvard researchers Amabile & Kramer have studied the phenomenon of success in making small steps forward , and named it the “ progress principle ”: … the single most important ( thing ) is making progress in meaningful work . And the more frequently people experience that sense of progress , the more likely they are to be creatively productive in the long run ” ( 2011 ).
Making progress in meaningful work is the essence of achievement ; it is our goal for every TA student . The meaning of achievement varies , intrinsically linked to students ’ individual talents , circumstances , and aspirations . Hard work , perseverance , sacrifice , and determination are key , together with the awareness that the result of hard won achievements is not always eye-catching , like earning an “ A ,” being a starter , or winning a solo part . No matter ; genuine achievement in meaningful work is always worthwhile , no matter how gradual .
At TA we foster a learning environment that supports the many forms of student achievement . We hope the drive we cultivate in our students ultimately lasts a lifetime . Soccer legend Pelé reminds us , “ Success is no accident . It is hard work , perseverance , learning , studying , sacrifice and most of all , love of what you are doing or learning to do .” The alumni profiled in this issue of
Headmaster Rene M . Menard ’ 88 proudly shared the Apple Distinguished School recognition with Bonita L . Pothier , Regional Representative of Senator Angus King . Story on p . 4 .
Postscripts have all done just that . They have worked hard and persevered ; all truly love the meaningful work they do .
As you read through this latest issue of Postscripts , I know you will be as inspired as we are by where a TA education can take you . A couple of stories are very close to home . The work of Director of Technology Ben Nasse ’ 93 resulted in TA ’ s recognition as an Apple Distinguished School ; and under the leadership of Director of Campus Safety Jim Trask ’ 80 , TA has been recognized with a Facility of Merit Award . You will also find stories on David Baker ’ 76 , Jim Godbout ’ 80 , and others . We know there are many more stories of achievement and success out there . I hope you will get in touch and tell us yours .
Rene M . Menard ’ 88 , Headmaster