Coach Rich Johns shared his message of "Act with Respect Always" with K-12 students.
The inspirational speaker showed videos to emphasize his points and discussed empathy, paying it forward, and how only 1% of a person is what you see. "Never judge people by what they look like, what they wear, where they live, or what they drive," said Coach Johns. "You must learn to tolerate others."
The remaining 99% represents your character. "It is what really matters," commented Coach Johns.
"How much of the 99% do you demonstrate every day?" asked Coach Johns. "Do all you can do to do better. Listen and understand how someone else feels. Anyone can be a hero."
K-12 School Counselor Ashley LaVine said, "We continue to ask our students if they're having a 99% day." She added that middle and high school students joined Coach Johns' team to be a better person by signing his "Act with Respect Always" banner pledging to work toward having a 99% Day. The banner now hangs in the school's foyer for all to see every day.
Starfish awards were presented to teachers for making a difference and every student received a rubber wristband to remind them of the "Act with Respect Always" message.
"Coach Johns' presentation resonated with everyone," added Ms. LaVine. "Students were inspired to make their own posters. A club in the high school that will focus on his message is forming. I'm planning on having Coach Johns return to our school."