By Jack Freeman | Brainerd Public Schools activities director

To our teachers, coaches, directors, and advisers — thank you for all you do to positively impact our young people. The lessons you teach go far beyond the classroom, field, court, or stage. You are role models and mentors who use your platform to help students grow in character, leadership, and resilience. The care and commitment you pour into your work leaves a lasting mark.

We are so fortunate at BHS to offer a rich variety of athletics, activities, arts, and clubs. In education-based activities, we often call them the last class of the day; a place where students can explore their passions, build relationships, develop life skill,s and commit to something greater than themselves. Here at Brainerd, if a student has a passion, they can pursue it. This matters because we know that student involvement equals student success.

To our parents and families — thank you for everything you do. The car rides, the shuttling, the fundraising, the cheering, the late nights and the early mornings. You are the constant support system for our kids. The sacrifices you make and the encouragement you provide help make these experiences possible. We could not do this without you.

I also want to give a heartfelt thank you to our local media partners — the Brainerd Dispatch, Lakeland News, Hubbard Radio, and so many others, who do such a great job telling the story of the Warriors. Your coverage helps connect us as a community and celebrates the accomplishments of our students in such meaningful ways. It is truly a blessing to have your support.

And finally, to our students — thank you for choosing to get involved and make the most of your high school experience. You are incredible ambassadors for our school and our community. Whether you wore a jersey, played an instrument, performed on stage, led a club, or cheered from the stands, you made us proud every step of the way. Your energy, spirit, and character inspire us all.

In my role as activities director, I get to see the best of this community every single day. From the adults who give so generously of their time and talents, to the students who rise to the occasion again and again, I am reminded how special it is to be part of the Warrior Way.

So from the bottom of my heart, thank you, Brainerd. It is an honor and a privilege to serve this great school and this great community.