I have spent more than 22 years in the Gretna Public School District and every year the board of education included the same board goal: Promote a culture of one unified educational community. Today we wish the cross country runners the best of luck as they compete in the state cross country meet. Tonight will be the much-anticipated football game between Gretna High and Gretna East so we want to take a moment to celebrate not only the competition on the field but also the strength of our community. This varsity competition represents one of the last activities that have not yet competed against one another. While this game may bring excitement, it is important to remember that it is not about rivalry, but about the values that make our Gretna community great: respect, sportsmanship, and unity.
Many of these athletes on both teams were once classmates, friends, and teammates who have shared experiences and grown up together in our schools. Whether they now represent Gretna High or Gretna East, they are all part of the same unified community. The bonds they’ve formed over the years are a reminder that we are stronger together, even when we compete on opposite sides of the field.
Over the last year, our students have competed against one another across various sports and activities - always demonstrating class and character that reflect our district’s core principles. Whether it’s on the softball field, the soccer pitch, the volleyball court, or the cross country trail, or while competing together on the swim team, we’ve seen Gretna High and Gretna East students face off with mutual respect and a sense of camaraderie that goes beyond the scoreboard.
As we gather tonight to cheer on our football teams, we encourage everyone - players, students, families and fans alike - to continue embracing that same spirit of positivity and sportsmanship. These games are a celebration of the hard work, dedication, and achievements of all our student-athletes, and they provide an opportunity for our entire community to come together and support each other.
We are proud of the talent, determination, and teamwork our students exhibit in all activities, and we ask that parents and spectators contribute to an atmosphere of respect and encouragement. Let’s show our students what it means to support one another, whether they wear green and gold or black and gold, as part of the same community. It’s easy to see the things creating division in our communities. Together, let’s set an example of unity that the entire Gretna community can be proud of, and work toward creating a culture of one unified educational community.
As fall activities start to come to a close, we wish the best of luck to all our Griffins and Dragons in their competitions.
Superintendent Travis Lightle