SUPER MONDAY

A motivational and informational morning message from Superintendent Willis

Week 15 ~ November 17th, 2025

Super Monday Message

On April 2, 1982 the Argentina government made their move for the Falkland islands. They had pleaded their case for many years that they were the rightful owners of the small islands 300 miles east in the Atlantic. Their pleas were ignored as Great Britain had controlled the islands for nearly 150 years. Instead of waiting for a diplomatic solution, Argentina decided to take the islands by force. In less than a day they overpowered the small British police force that maintained order on the islands.

The politics of the takeover were complex. Many countries believed there were more pressing issues and that Great Britain should simply continue negotiating with Argentina rather than escalate tensions by showing military might for small islands far from London. Even America was lukewarm at best in their support for Great Britain on the issue. President Reagan was pushing hard against left leaning political leaders across South and Central America, he worried that supporting Great Britain in a powerful military show of force might destabilize some of the political work he had started.

Great Britain was led at the time by their first ever female Prime Minister, Margret Thatcher. She had been given the nickname “The Iron Lady” by a Soviet Union journalist six years previously and it was a fitting name she embraced. She was firm in her convictions and resolute in her decisions. Prime Minister Thatcher was not about to abandon the Falkland Islands. She immediately sent the might of the British Empire on the long journey to the islands. As her navy traveled she began the politics of ensuring the world would support her return use of force when they arrived.

Her biggest obstacle was ensuring the support of the United States. In a famous recorded call Thatcher asked the United States to assist with the logistics of the naval mission. President Reagan was not easily convinced and he tried to sell the Prime Minister on a ceasefire option proposed by Brazil and Peru. He explained the problems he faced if she showed too much force in the total victory of the Argentine military.

Prime Minister Thatcher didn’t even allow the President to finish explaining his proposal. She cut him off and firmly asked how he would respond if Alaska had been invaded. Her unyielding position won over the President and he consented to support her operation. The Falklands War was over 72 days after it started. On June 14th the Argentine government surrendered after casualties of over 600 military personnel. Great Britain regained power over the Islands and Prime Minister Thatcher's decisive leadership in the conflict led to her landside reelection victory.

We all have things in life we want to accomplish that have some complex politics. We frequently need the support of others and sometimes even our friends aren’t sure about our goals. We can be firm in our positions, resolute in our decisions, and clear about our expectations without being unkind or unprofessional. Our biggest goals frequently require the iron like fortitude of Margaret Thatcher to see them through the doubts of others. Some will doubt your potential, you should not. Have the best week 15.

Super High Fives

Just a couple of the awesome recent accomplishments that need a big thank you.

• A super high five to students, teachers, and parents for participating in parent teacher conferences last week. Big thanks to all the parents that make time to check up on student progress and keep up good communication with teachers and staff.
• A super high five to Holly Westwood and the girls basketball team for taking the lead on an excellent Meet The T-Birds night last Thursday. There was a great crowd and we were introduced to a great group of winter sports athletes. We’re grateful for all the support our teams receive.

Other Super Information

• Winter Sports Calendar 2025-2026
  • Link to subscribe to PHS Sports Calendar
• 2025-2026 School District Calendar
• Proposed 2026-2027 School District Calendar

Super Weekly Schedule