First day of school: Mr. Harding’s 5^th hour newspaper class is asked to ponder names for the school newspaper. Non- descriptive names, of course, came to mind including the bland “Vista Grande Newspaper.” Deciding to table the brainstorming for the next class, students were given an assignment; research a name that would best encompass our school spirit and purpose, a publication that would immediately inspire that this is our “Spartan” communication.

Excited, of course, I entered a Google search for Spartan communications. I quickly realized that fire played a critical role. Greek history records that the Spartans used a communication during battle called “fryktories.”  Fryktories were individuals responsible for observing and sending messages through the fire of torches.  I knew then “Spartan Torch,” was the right name for our school paper.  The class voted on various names and agreed.

The name decided, staffing our new Spartan Torch began. I applied to become Editor In Chief and learned a few weeks later I had the title and the responsibility. As we prepare for the publication of our first ever Spartan Torch, I’m looking forward to the bond this tool of communication will bring to our student body. This is our paper, our stories, our successes. This is truly our Torch to carry. I am blessed to be working with an awesome staff and talented editors.

Finally, I would like to thank Mr. Harding, for his enthusiasm, wisdom and support. Without his generous help as an educator the “Spartan Torch” would not be on line or in print today.