Throughout this year, our district staff have embraced the theme of One Cardinal Community, and time and time again, our students, staff, and community have exemplified what that truly means. In moments of triumph, perseverance, and unity, I have found myself being more intentional in recognizing the "glimmers"—those small yet powerful moments of joy, gratitude, and inspiration. When we train ourselves to look for these moments, we start to see them everywhere. And in Maquoketa, the glimmers just keep shining.
Tuesday night’s historic Girls Basketball State Tournament appearance was one of those defining glimmers (video montage) . Watching our girls step onto the court as the first team in Maquoketa history to achieve this milestone was more than just a game—it was a moment built upon years of dedication, perseverance, and the unwavering belief in what is possible. As I’ve spoken with some of the women who started the first Maquoketa girls basketball team 50 years ago, I was reminded of how each generation lays the foundation for the next. Their grit, strength, and resilience paved the way for the incredible young women who took the court last night, and this connection between past and present was a glimmer that gave me goosebumps.
But this moment is not the only glimmer that has defined our year. Our first female wrestler in school history qualified for state, breaking barriers and setting the stage for future generations. We have had multiple athletes competing at the state level, showcasing discipline, determination, and leadership. Our musicians and other clubs such as speech, FFA, and BPA have reached new heights, proving that excellence in Maquoketa is not confined to any one arena—it exists in every aspect of our student experience (video montage). These accomplishments remind us that success is not just about winning; it is about growth, courage, and coming together.
The greatest lesson in these moments is that while there will always be setbacks, they do not define us. Just like in sports, music, and life, we learn more from our challenges than we do from our victories, and those challenges make the triumphs even sweeter. What stands out the most about our students and our community is not just what we achieve, but how we achieve it—with teamwork, belief in one another, and a commitment to lifting each other up.
As I drove home from the game, reflecting on the night and all that it meant, I kept coming back to one thing: Maquoketa is a glimmer. In both the joyous times and the difficult ones, this community continues to shine because of the kindness, compassion, and resilience that we show each other every day. While others may not always see these glimmers, we must continue to tell our story and show the world the great things happening in Maquoketa. Together we are building something special—not just for today, but for generations to come.
Superintendent Notz