Over the course of the next month one of the many debates we all will have centers on the current state of Nebraska football.  After the Minnesota game last week a few of my friends and I had a “friendly” discussion as to what type of coach Nebraska should hire if Shawn Eichorst decides to fire Bo Pelini.  And then the Iowa game happened.

Side Note:  One of my favorite movies is Dumb and Dumber.  In it there is a line where Harry says, “just when I thought you couldn’t possibly be any dumber, you go and do something like this…and totally redeem yourself!  This was the tale of the first three quarters compared to the last quarter for me.

Before you get all worked up about what should be done, heed the warning that this article is not about who the next coach SHOULD be.  This article is about something different…I think.

While I don’t envy Shawn Eichorst’s dilemma, I feel like Nebraskan’s have supported their university enough they feel like they are a part of its brand and should have a say in the next hire.  Heck, sometimes I hear people, myself included, talk about the former coach and athletic director, Dr. Tom like we have coffee every morning with him at Superior-Deshler in Davenport or at Betty’s in Bruning or at ________(insert your hometown cafe here).  Regardless, Nebraska is a brand name that most, if not all, recognize to be an honorable institution.  This can be debated as well based on our past reputation.  If we were not an honorable institution, then why would the Big Ten want us, right?  Is it all about Academics???

Back to the discussion.  What type of coach should Nebraska hire if Bo gets fired?  Should the coach be able to recruit ethically unlike other teams?  Should the coach have ties to HS programs in Texas?  Florida? Should the coach recruit players that will graduate or go to class (the next starting QB for Ohio State next weekend – http://goo.gl/Lp78EG)?  These questions, while valid, all tie into the brand that Nebraska is trying to maintain or accomplish.  The problem is, Shawn Eichorst gets the say if nine wins a year and running a tight ship is what he wants Nebraska Football to be all about.

Which gets us to our discussion.  Brands can be good or bad.  Apple vs. Microsoft, Nike vs. Adidas, Dodge vs. Ford.  In my current role as building principal, I have been fortunate enough to learn about the brand that Bruning-Davenport has.  We are the Storm.  Many years have been spent debating school mascots, where games will be played, what is the best class schedule, etc.  As time has evolved, Bruning-Davenport has evolved into the BDS Eagles for athletic competitions.  We are, however, the Bruning-Davenport Storm in Drama, Speech, and the Fine Arts.

At Bruning-Davenport, much like at Nebraska, we must ask the following questions:  Are we offering students a quality education?  Are we providing staff with opportunities to grow as teachers?  Do we allow and encourage students to be involved in all aspects of school such as the fine arts and sports?   From my perspective, we are providing our students with a quality education and providing our staff with opportunities to grow as teachers.  The students’ of Bruning-Davenport schools represent their patrons and school beyond athletics, and because of this, they should be proud.

As time passes leadership changes (principals/ADs), students graduate, and teachers/coaches retire/get fired.  The brand of your school evolves as well.  Bruning-Davenport will continue to offer our students a quality education by allowing our staff to grow as teachers and encourage our students to be involved in the brand that has become known as the “Storm.”  If, for some reason Shawn Eichorst decides to go in a different direction, then the brand of the Nebraska Huskers will evolve with his vision and leadership as well…for better…or worse…

Often times throughout the day I hear teachers saying phrases to students such as: “try your best; I know if you put your mind to it you will succeed; and take your time.”  As adults, we don’t have anyone reminding us of those things.  Your words and actions define who you are.  As you go through your day, be the best you.  As you reflect on your past, think about how you would describe yourself?

Reflecting upon my childhood, I always wanted to be the wallflower in conversations and oftentimes felt like I was privileged when I heard something that I was not supposed to. Through guidance from my parents and grandparents, I was taught to be respectful of other people and to not spread rumors.  The power of listening is very valuable.  By meddling in places I was not wanted often got me in trouble with my parents and sister.  Adults sometimes meddle when accountability and being respectful is probably the route to go. The same can be said about gossip.  Oftentimes, the person listening to conversations and then spreading gossip damages not only the person they are presumably trying to support, but themselves as well.

As adults, we need to remember to be kind and respectful.  Far too often adults connive, complain and add to the dysfunction of their workplace and homes.  In essence, adults sometimes behave like grown children.  I am sure you have all heard that at one time or another.  Adults sometimes see the need to complain and make excuses when being kind and respectful to someone oftentimes makes all the difference.  Investing in others will always pay out with a better return.

With the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons upon us, I challenge each and every one of you to be who you are and to be role models for younger generations.  You may be surprised to find that you have a knack for solving problems.  You may find that you are great at investing in students.  Or, you may find that you are more productive when you give back to your community and family.

The past month I have read a lot about Ameer Abdullah and something this young man said struck a chord with me.  Ameer Abdullah said, “Be who you are all the time.”  What a great life lesson.  When my wife taught she had three rules for her classroom.  Be Kind.  Be Safe.  Be Respectful.  This is who she is as a person.  She is kind, she provides a safe home for our kids, and she is respectful of her peers and elders.  Ameer was very philosophical when he said that basically many people act and don’t act like who they really are.  I challenge you to all be who you are all the time, and in doing so – be the best you!