This school year, the Muscatine High School administration has implemented the acronym “Muskie PRIDE,” a new initiative standing for Purpose, Respect, Integrity, Discipline, and Effort. This isn’t just another program; it’s a call for action for each of us to embody these values every day, in every area of the building. It’s about implementing a positive school culture and encouraging students to take ownership of their actions and education. The program stresses the importance of not only academic success, but also personal growth and responsible behavior.
“Just the other day, I saw a student using PRIDE as they picked up and threw away a piece of trash that wasn’t hers,” stated Assistant Principal Mrs. Mohr. “Small acts like that make Muscatine High School a wonderful place.”
The slogan not only targets improvement within the school, but also helps build the future citizens of Muscatine. Senior Kara Schlawin believes Muskie pride helps us understand,
“How to be a good student and to be a respectable adult after high school.”
But what exactly does PRIDE stand for?
Purpose: Be present and engaged
- Do your work when necessary
- Stay focused always
- Stay off electronics when possible
Brody Nelson uses pride in his everyday life, not just at school. “You can show purpose by thinking before you do things and having a good reason behind it,” stated Junior, Brody Nelson.
Respect: Treat people and places with care
- Apologize for your actions
- Listen to your teachers and peers
- Respecting school property and staff
Kyndle Allen, senior, believes that pride has to do with being compassionate and kind to those around you.
“Don’t only think about yourself, think about others as well, do your best to impact those around you and make their day better,” Kyndle Allen explained.
Integrity: Simply do what’s right
- Don’t cheat or plagiarize
- Complete your school work ON TIME
- Being prepared
Different students interpret Muskie pride in different ways.
Abby Schell, junior, believes it means, “Being someone who practices leadership within the school and community, demonstrating good behavior regardless of who’s watching.”
Discipline: Hold others and yourself accountable
- Take responsibility for your actions
- Report bad behavior
- Be honest with your teachers and peers
Senior Hadley Hines understands discipline as she explains, “You can show discipline by doing something even when you don’t want to do it.”
Effort: Be future-focused
- Asking for help
- Put in extra time to academics
- Setting academic goals for yourself
Senior Melanie Fernandez tries her best to put effort into her work: “Have a schedule and make sure to put time aside for academics and don’t procrastinate.”
Administration has been leaning on upperclassmen to implement pride and represent these values to underclassmen, especially those who are leaders in different extracurricular activities.
“I really lean on our juniors and seniors in different leadership positions, whether it’s student council, Key Club, athletics, or activities; they are the best leaders we have,” stated Mrs. Mohr.
Focusing on these core values, the school aims to create a supportive and enriching environment for all students.
