POWER Zone 2025–26 School Year Kickoff

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The POWER Zone welcomed staff back from summer break with an inspiring morning at Vista Ridge High School filled with excitement, breakfast burritos, and lollipop moments.

Staff gathered over breakfast to catch up, share summer stories, and talk about the year ahead. The VRHS commons buzzed with laughter, hugs, and renewed energy for the new school year.

 

Theresa Ritz, POWER Zone Superintendent, opened the morning by reminding everyone that in the POWER Zone the most important priority is People First and that District 49 values our Cultural Compass and the power of voice and choice. People—students, staff, families, and community—are always at the heart of our work.

Staff watched a TED Talk by Drew Dudley on “lollipop moments”—those small, often unnoticed interactions that can make a lasting difference in someone’s life. Theresa shared a personal story about a teacher who helped shape her daughter’s path as a writer, reminding staff that these moments of encouragement, recognition, and support happen every single day in our schools. Sometimes it’s one meaningful moment. Other times, it’s the steady, intentional presence teachers bring across a school year. Either way, these moments influence lives and futures. A video of POWER Zone students and leaders sharing their own lollipop moments was enjoyed by all.

The morning continued with a dynamic keynote from Bob Felice, the first POWER Zone Superintendent, returning to the place where it all began nearly 15 years ago. Now a seasoned public speaker, leadership coach, and founder of a leadership company called Seeding Chaos, Bob shared his inspiring personal journey and recalled some of the most important “lollipop moments” from across his life, including the early interactions he had with District 49 Superintendent Peter Hilts. Bob described his fight to rise above the constraints of multiple sclerosis and how the influence of positive voices from his past helped him to do it. He reminded everyone of the importance of loving the people we serve. His message was clear. We are all leaders, and our daily words and actions have the power to change lives. 

One staff member summed it up best: “This was the most powerful and inspirational message I’ve heard in my 20-year career.”

What a perfect way to kick off the school year. The POWER Zone is ready for their best year yet!

More photos are available on our Facebook Page: