Former NFL Player and Springer Alum Speaks at Celebration

The emotional high point of the evening was certainly the words of Guest Speaker Michael Wright, an alumnus of Springer and Montgomery resident who played for seven years for the New England Patriots. Mike spoke eloquently about his experiences as a child growing up with a learning disability. He expressed gratitude that he was diagnosed and sent to Springer, where he gained the tools and self-confidence that made subsequent transitions to high school and college smooth and successful.

Mike had words of assurance for parents of students with learning disabilities – that their kids would be okay. And he had words of encouragement for the children. “The sky’s the limit for each and every one of those kids,” he said, “as long as they believe in themselves and do whatever it takes to get themselves better every single day, and they don’t worry about the noise and the critics who are trying to tell them they can’t, or they’re different, because they’re not. They’re their own person, and they’ll create their own destiny.”

Mike thanked Springer’s staff, and the generous donors who have supported the school over the years. “The things I learned at Springer will rub off on my children,” he said, “and affect them in a positive way as they did me, and for that I am grateful.”

The event raised $148,000 that will support financial aid, and school and outreach programs. Guests bid on more than 100 live and silent auction items, and took their chances at three raffle prizes and a 100-bottle wine pull. Local 12 WKRC TV’s Brad Johansen served as emcee for the evening. The Event Chair was alumni parent and former Springer Trustee Nick Spadaccini, and current Springer parent Gina Goings served as Auction Chair.