Park High School focuses on fostering close alumni ties and prides itself on bringing the community back to its roots. Alumni who have accomplished great things bring success and pride to our school, and offer many useful lessons of wisdom for students.

This November, Park alum and Minnesota state representative Peggy Flanagan returned to her old high school for an interview with Mary Lahammer, another Park graduate. She also spoke to freshman civics and economics classes about how her experiences at Park influenced her future as a politician. She encouraged students to be aware of the political changes which surround and affect them.

Flanagan also spoke about her difficulties breaking the glass ceiling as a Native American woman. She represents a message of becoming something no matter where you come from. She shows students how the possibilities are endless; if she can do it, so can you.The Echo Editorial Board feels It is imperative that students starting high school have a role model they can look up to who teaches them to aspire for success.

It is important to recognize the impact we leave behind on our school. Flanagan and other notable alumni show the truth of never truly knowing who you will effect on your path of success.

The Editorial Board believes both students and faculty alike can learn from her successes and the achievements of many others who once learned in the same rooms years ago. Park students should feel accomplished for representing our school as they venture on toward their future.

The school prides itself on having a respectable number of alumni return to the school, Park honors the experiences each individual has made throughout their career. For example, the distinguished alumnus award is handed out every year at graduation.

Because of the impact Flanagan’s meeting with the freshmen class had, we wish the whole school had received the opportunity to take advantage of the inspirational lessons she offered.

We hope future alumni continue to stay in touch and connected to the Park network. That way, we can use the lessons gained from community members to create a difference wherever life takes us.