FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
Exemplify Courage, Compassion, Purpose The following was Head of School Aléwa Cooper’s address to Foote’s 9th-Grade Class of 2023.
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s you embark on your high school journeys, I want to remind you of Foote values that can and should serve as a compass (if you let them), guiding you through life and empowering you to make a positive impact on the world. Foote’s mission is to “empower children to lead with courage, compassion, and purpose.” Those are the values I want you to remember. While sometimes overlooked, compassion is a quality I urge you to cultivate. In a world that often feels divided and disconnected, compassion is the bridge that can unite us all. It is the capacity to understand and share the feelings of others, to lend a helping hand, and to offer support when it is needed most. Let compassion continue to be a guiding force behind your actions, whether in your personal relationships, your educational endeavors, or when engaging the broader community. The smallest act of kindness creates a ripple effect that touches lives far beyond what you can imagine. Courage is the fuel that propels dreams into reality. It is the audacity to pursue your passions, even in the face of uncertainty and fear. Courage is not the absence of doubt; rather, it is the willingness to confront and overcome those doubts, embracing the challenges that lie before you. As you step into the unknown, remember that courage is not about being fearless but about taking action in the face of fear. Have the courage to be innovative, to question the status quo, and to stand up for what you believe is right, even when it's difficult. Finally, purpose. Discovering your purpose is an ongoing journey, one that requires self-reflection, exploration, compassion for yourself, courage, and a willingness to listen to the whispers of your heart. Your purpose is not predetermined; it is a creation of your own making. It is the intersection of your passions, talents, and the needs of the world. Seek out what ignites a fire within you, what brings you joy, and where you can make a meaningful difference. Remember that purpose is not solely about personal fulfillment; it is about serving a higher cause and contributing to the well-being of humanity. Let your purpose guide your decisions, your actions, and your legacy. You are part of a generation capable of transforming the world in ways we have yet to imagine. Embrace the challenges that come your way, for they are the stepping stones to growth and transformation. Surround yourself with diverse perspectives, engage in dialogue, and build bridges across divides. Embrace failure and never lose sight of the power of collaboration. Always remember that true leaders lead not for personal gain but for the betterment of others. True compassion embraces the universal humanity that binds us all. True courage is not found in reckless bravado but in the quiet determination to do what is right. And true purpose is discovered when you listen to the calling of your heart and dedicate yourself to a cause greater than yourself.
2 | Foote Prints
