It is in a child’s nature to aid, to care, to serve.  Sadly, those natural tendencies often take a back seat to adolescence.  During these formative years, children tend to focus more on self and peers than on those outside their circle, their world.  There are, however, those children who defy the odds and exceed expectations.  Spencer Allen is such a child.

In my three years of service as principal of East Elementary School, I have had a shadow.  Rarely a day has passed that Spencer, now in 4th Grade, has not asked for East Elementary School to sponsor a team for Relay for Life.  Though ‘asked’ is not a strong enough word, as it does not adequately illustrate his determination, it shall remain.  On many occasions I have explained, in some detail, that our faculty and staff support Relay for Life through other avenues, often by joining the team of our spouse’s employer or that of a church. Being an educated man, I assumed that my explanations were well presented and supported by facts, and therefore, would suffice; wrong.  Spencer continued his campaign.  It is at this point that I must say that while some children are dedicated to a cause, Spencer is called, as it is said. 

Two years ago, the East Elementary School Student Council voted to make annual donations to Relay for Life, in no small part thanks to Spencer’s efforts.  When I told him of the donation, he graciously said, “Thank you,” smiled, and walked away.  The next day, however, he began his quest anew...now with his twin sisters in tow. 

This year, Spencer has patiently continued his mission, asking each day that East Elementary School sponsor a team for Relay for Life.  As is tradition, I listen, make my statement to which he smiles and says, “Okay,” and walks away...only to return the following day with the same request.  This year, Spencer sent me an email with a link to his Relay for Life sponsor page.  I met with Student Council, and we agreed to donate to Spencer’s account meeting his donation goal; but, I decided to make an example of Spencer.

Friday, February 20, 2009, East Elementary School held a Celebration Assembly highlighting both academic and character successes.  On this day, I presented Spencer with a Principal’s Award for Community Service, telling the faculty and student body of Spencer’s consistent and persistent efforts for Relay for Life.  He was, as always, gracious as he accepted his award and donation, but his grin was a reminder that he would return in the morning to continue his quest. 

While I am sure that it would be understood for me to meet Spencer each day with some degree of angst, I instead smile and happily engage in our little talk.  I can’t help but respect him more each day.  In all honesty, my day seems a little less bright if Spencer isn’t there, at some point, offering a smile and asking for a donation.

David Wiggins
Principal
East Elementary School