As our middle school principal heads off into the desert sunset, I can’t help but share, in typical Mr. V fashion, some guidance for the future. The 3 most important lessons we’ve learned from Mr. Michael Valentine…

 

1)  Find a place where your gifts, faith, passion, and joy are shared, valued, and celebrated, and make it your home. This is the difference between a job and a vocation. Very few people work at the same place for 45 years. Mr. V is a rare individual who found his home at Chaminade and made working here his vocation for over four decades. He also strived to make this place feel like home for others, and because of this, he is a blessed man.

 

2)  Relationships matter. While Mr. V’s superpower of remembering names and stories is legendary, it was never meant to impress. Rather, he employed his talent to make each of the thousands of students, staff, teachers, and parents he encountered feel seen, heard, and loved. Given the countless individuals who have reached out in recent months to let Mr. V know of his impact, he is reaping the love that he sowed in prioritizing relationships.

3)  Never forget your inner child. While no one has worked harder at Chaminade than Mr. V, especially during his time as principal, no one has had more fun either. From his classic Halloween costumes, rally performances, and keen sense of humor, Mr. V. finds joy in each new day. He epitomizes the notion that opportunities abound for those who embrace new adventures.

 

God bless you, Mr. V, for your extraordinary 45 years of service to Chaminade. Thank you for helping build this beautiful school for generations to come.