Even though I have lived in Pike County my entire life, I have rarely had the opportunity to visit several of our schools; that is, until I joined the staff of The Messenger. Now, I find myself roaming the halls of all of our schools regularly, and I am truly amazed by their holdings. While a lot has changed since I was a student, there are many things that have remained just the same.

I never remember visitors being required to stop by the office for a visitor pass or morning breaks that are so short I barely have time to snap a picture before the students are rushed off to class. However, I do remember the fun and excitement of Homecoming Week, getting to see your friends every day, pep rallies, field trips and all of the other fun and exciting things that go along with being a student. I also remember the challenges of being a student, many of which remain the same. Homework, tests, hectic schedules, peer pressure and many other trials greet students and offer them the chance to prove themselves ready to face adulthood, just as they did for me.

Today’s students are a bright batch, proving themselves time and time again. Their creativity and imagination is ever present. I enjoy my association with them, and find myself inspired by their excitement. My prayer for them is that they continue to be blessed with an optimistic outlook, courage to face the challenges of life and the wisdom to make the right decisions.

I am so thankful that I get to be a part of their school experience. When you have an opportunity to spend time with them, even if it is only passing in the halls, you will not only have an opportunity to relive your school years, but you will also be looking into the face of our future.

Today’s students are the future of Pike County. We take note of that fact on a daily basis here at The Messenger, covering everything from what they want to be when they grow up in our recent special section, Meet the Class of 2021, to who won Friday night’s football game. We are proud of the youth of Pike County and are happy to feature them in our coverage.

We’re thankful to the principals and teachers who allow us to interrupt their schedules, to the parents who offer their unending support of our cause and, most of all, to the students who always stand ready to smile for our cameras and let us in to a day in their lives. They may not realize it now, but we know who they are … They are our future and it looks like it’ll be a bright one!

Wendy Ward is special projects coordinator for The Messenger. She can be reached via email at wendy.ward@troymessenger.com.