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Even though my job title reads Head of School, I remain a teacher at heart. This semester I teach DE US Government to Seniors – some of my favorite people (BTW, the Senior Water Tag photo has nothing to do with my class). I began my career as a Social Studies teacher and later added coaching – cross country, basketball, and track and field. Teaching continues to keep me grounded to my original calling – investing my life in high school students the same way my teachers did with me.
While backpacking through Colorado this summer, I had plenty of time to consider goals for this school year. This week I started one of them – 1:1 meetings with Seniors with no real agenda other than to have a casual conversation about life. Next semester, I’ll do the same with Juniors.
One Senior asked me why I chose to serve at VCHS. My answer came fairly quickly because it’s the same now as it was almost eight years ago – people, mission, location. Let me quickly unpack each one.
The VCHS family is special – I love working with our amazing teachers and staff. Our 153 students are exceptional. Each are unique ‘souls’, and it’s awesome to know each by name. I’m also grateful for the larger VCHS community of parents, alumni, alumni parents, donors, and friends. Family Forever is our mantra.
More than ever, the VCHS mission, as well as what we value most, runs through my own veins – the pursuit of excellence with academics, arts, and athletics grounded in the Christian faith, with the teachings of Jesus at the core. As if it were for my own children, I’m driven to have VCHS provide the very best for today’s students and to prepare the way for future Saints.
And is it selfish to say our location? Yes, I love working, living, and playing in our amazing valley. I’m inspired by the people who call this home and by the beauty of God’s handiwork right at 31621 Highway 6 along the Eagle River.
VCHS people, mission, and location…does it get any better?
Steve O'Neil
Head of School
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