Headmaster, Jon Hopman, addressed students and parents at the opening of school convocation on August 13, 2015 kicking off the 50th Anniversary school year:
I would like to welcome our Board of Trustees, distinguished guests, alumni, parents, faculty and most importantly our students.Today is a special day for many reasons.Of course today is the start of the 2015-16 school year and I know you are all excited about transitioning into new grades, meeting new friends, having new teachers, and taking new courses.Today is also special because it is the 50th anniversary of Hilton Head Prep.
Take a moment to reflect upon what that truly means.As you walk around our campus I would like everyone to think about those who have come before you.Think of all the lives that have been impacted over the past 50 years. Think of the thousands of students who have walked through the same doors you currently pass through.Think about the hundreds of artists who have placed their work upon the walls that you now adorn with your beautiful artwork. Think about the hundreds of athletes who have played on the very same field or court that you now compete upon, and think of the many performances that have spotlighted the talent of so many who have gone before you.
Hilton Head Prep has every reason to be proud, and I look forward to the coming year where we will honor Prep's heritage.We will reflect on our past and celebrate all that is good about our school.
One of the best ways we can honor the legacy of those who have gone before us is to remain steadfast to our mission as a college preparatory school, nestled on the wonderful island of Hilton Head.We must maintain high academic standards.We must never forget about the importance of moral character and strong values.We must strive to build a community with open arms and a desire to serve and support one another.We must help our students understand concepts such as perseverance, zest, and good old fashion GRIT.Such character traits will guide us through the turbulence we all face at one time or another.
We must maintain a sense of Prep Pride that is the heart of our school.
I am humbled to be standing before you representing Hilton Head Prep.The true honor and recognition should go to the amazing administration, faculty and staff who have worked tirelessly throughout the summer in preparation for today.I cannot tell you how excited I am for the 2015-16 school year to begin, so I can witness the incredible transformation that takes place in our students, on this campus, over the course of each school year.
Students, Your education and the opportunity to attend Hilton Head Prep is a gift.As always, I challenge you to make the most of the coming year.Expand your circle of friends. Try something new.Challenge yourself.Own your education!
To the class of 2016, I applaud you for letting the student body know that it is okay to "try hard." I look forward to working with you and seeing your leadership have a positive impact on our campus.Please make the most of your senior year and do not wish this very special time away.
I would like to thank each of our parents, who have trusted us with their most prized possession.It is often said that it takes a village to raise a child; we look forward to being your partner in education for the 2015-16 school year.
As I close these ceremonies and officially begin the 2015-16, 50th anniversary year, I ask each of you, students, faculty and even parents, how will you contribute to the greater good of Hilton Head Prep?What we do today and throughout the year will be our legacy.
Let's make this an awesome year!
