John Underwood Director AAI
I just returned from Minnesota where I spoke at Shattuck St. Mary’s School. It was for me an absolutely positive experience. Having visited many prep venues in the past decade I found one that absolutely shines. The overall environment echoed one tone “EXCELLENCE”…
The coaches, teachers, administrators and staff, were among the most caring and in tune with the young people that I have seen in the past decade. They support excellence at SSMS through concern for what is in the best interest of children. They had no reservations about serious discussions of social drug use and the ramifications for those who partake. They realize that our youth are influenced by the same cultural issues on all fronts. They cared enough to support proactive educational efforts while many other similar venues are in fantasy land. I saw young adults at SSMS with great character. I saw incredible facilities, caring mentors and a model for all who deal with young people. That model is that if you offer incredible opportunity, there is only one way to take advantage of the opportunity and that is to do it the best way possible. I saw young people that were inspired, enthusiastic and full of life. When you raise the bar for youth they will jump over it. Excellence is what makes it happen.
Programs of Excellence are successful for a reason. They understand success comes at a price, determined not only by what you are willing to give… but also what you are willing to give up. The example of what education and youth development can be is alive in Minnesota. It should be that way everywhere…
Thank you very much for your genuine, thoughtful, uplifting remarks about our school, Shattuck-Saint Mary’s.
Keep up the essential and important work you have undertaken with passion. Be blessed and strengthened…
Father Henry Doyle, SSM Chaplain
Thank you so much Mr.Underwood. I just had my mom send me some rasins and chocklate milk! you helped me and my team alot!!!
I am a Shattuck grad 1962, and a recent addition to the Board of Trustees. I am becoming reacquainted with the School. Like you, John, I am incredibly impressed with the commitments and sacrifices being made by the educators, coaches, staff at all levels, and the families of all these people to insure that principles of honesty, decency and hard work all with the respect for others, in and outside the school environment are maintained and enhanced. These kids are proud that they behave, that they turn heads when away from school because of their appearance and behavior, and they are successful not just as individuals but as a part of a unique family. Is what can be seen as an unattractive environment of cold and rural Minnesota (no beaches and no night life)is 400 kids, most of whom are away from home and their hometown friends, many from other countries, who are raising each other as they raise themselves. Few kids who have lived at Shattuck never lose what they learned there. Their bonds are forever. That’s something in today’s world, and that’s why I reconnected.