From a reader the sad good bye

We ended this school year on an extremely emotional note. At about 11:20, ten minutes before school was released, everyone was asked to report to the gym. The staff and students formed a large circle to say goodbye to our principal, Mike Duprey. Everyone stood in anticipation waiting for the moment he would walk in the room. When he walked in, everyone applauded. The introduction to Tim McGraw’s “Humble and Kind” began to play, the crowd began cheering with all of the love in the hearts as Mr. Duprey came into the gym. His face red, his eyes filled with tears, he wore a t-shirt today saying, “Always stay humble and kind.” He was brought to the center of the circle where the applause raised in volume. He began shaking hands and hugging each and every single student and staff member standing in solidarity for him. It took the song playing almost twice before he completed the circle. Ms. Levin took a moment to say a few kind words in honor of Mike’s 26 years of commitment to the Pioneer community. Ms. Oliver presented a framed photograph enlargement of student silhouettes saying the words, “PVRS Loves You Mr. Duprey.” Members of the faculty contributed towards this gift for their principal. Mr. Duprey took a few moments to let us know how appreciative he was of all of us coming together to give him this moment, that he loves us, and will never forget us. There were hardly any dry eyes in that gymnasium. It feels as if it’s the end of an era. At the same time, anyone that has any sense of perception can see that this is not something he wants to do. Many hearts are breaking because they can’t imagine a world at Pioneer without someone like Mr. Duprey. He provides our school with support, stability, fairness, compassion, security, experience, humility, and kindness that feels impossible to replace.

                                WE LOVE YOU MIKE DUPREY AND YOU ARE PVRS

                                                 HEARTS ARE BROKEN TODAY