Published: June 02, 2009 10:04 pm         

TRIBUNE-STAR EDITORIAL: Present and accounted for

Teen students make statement of values

TERRE HAUTE — Inside every commencement ceremony are personal tales of triumph, tribulation and inspiration for every graduate. There are always amazing 4.0 grade-point averages, athletic record-setters and kids who’ve transformed from troubled teens into student-body role models.

Even amid all of those high achievers, Brittani McCalister and Lindsey Shattuck stand out.

On Sunday, McCalister graduated from West Vigo High School after 13 years of perfect school attendance, and was recognized for her achievement by Principal Tom Balitewicz during commencement. From kindergarten to her final day as a senior, McCalister never missed school. She never showed up late. She never missed class for an appointment. She was in her seat when the morning bell rang for 2,340 consecutive school days.

To put that in a baseball context, McCalister’s impressive streak approaches that of Hall of Famer Cal Ripken Jr., who played in 2,632 consecutive games for the Baltimore Orioles. McCalister probably would have surpassed the Iron Man, but she simply ran out of school days before graduation.

Like Ripken’s diamond record, McCalister’s reliability and self-discipline set an example to her classmates and community. Though she was tempted to sleep in at times, she resisted that urge, got up, got ready and made it to class, on time. Occasionally, a couple of Tylenol helped when McCalister didn’t feel great; otherwise, she was fueled by motivation to fulfill a goal she’d set as a youngster. Years ago, she and her brother started a competition to see which one could maintain perfect attendance. He made it through elementary school, but Brittani kept right on going.

Shattuck compiled a similar streak on her way to graduation Sunday from Terre Haute South Vigo High School. She also attended every day of school for 13 years, from kindergarten to commencement. South planned to honor Shattuck by presenting her with a plaque at Tuesday’s senior picnic.

The commitment by McCalister and Shattuck has high value. Future employers will be lucky to land either of these young women. Businesses benefit from reliable employees. Worker absenteeism costs firms an average of $789 per employee annually, according to a 2002 Harris poll.

Not surprisingly, McCalister has already been busy preparing for her life after high school. Since completing her course work at West Vigo in February, she has studied cosmetology at Harrold Beauty Academy and expects to earn her degree this month. She then plans to style hair “on the side” while also attending Indiana State University. She may also study law.

Whether they are working in a courtroom, a salon, a classroom, or some other field, one thing is certain — Brittani McCalister and Lindsey Shattuck will be ready and on time.