Courage in action: B-P superintendent skydives with U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute team

Broadalbin-Perth's core value of courage challenges students and staff alike to get out of their comfort zones and push themselves to their limits academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. Superintendent of Schools Stephen Tomlinson set an example of courage for the whole school community June 4 when he jumped out of a plane 14,000 feet in the air with the U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team.

Tomlinson traveled to Wright Airfield at Fort Stewart in Savannah, Georgia, for the tandem skydiving jump. Although the experience was personal for Tomlinson, he said he hopes by sharing his story he can inspire students.

"Don't ever let fear control your life. Ever!" he said. "There is a strong sense of accomplishment and pride in stepping out of your comfort zone."

The tandem skydiving jump is one of many experiences Tomlinson has had through the U.S. military's Leaders in Education Program.

"A long time ago, I connected with some very important people who recognized my passion for the military," Tomlinson said. "Since then, I've been given some incredibly rare opportunities. I spent a day on the Coronado Island Navy SEAL base, five nights on a Navy nuclear aircraft carrier, and five days on the Parris Island Marine Corp base."

Tomlinson says the only experience remaining on his military "bucket list" is flying with the Navy's Blue Angels.

Tomlinson encourages BPHS students interested in learning more about military service, ROTC (Reserve Officers' Training Corp), National Guard, or other ways to serve should speak with their school counselor. He says he would also love to talk with interested students about his experiences in hopes of “being the spark that lights their fire.”