We owe a lot to Debby Reum Merrill, the school libarian at the Christa McAuliffe Elementary School in Greeley, Colorado who introduced The North Star to the entire school - including the school’s music teacher Tim Beckman. This was many years ago now. Tim went on to create the musical and Peter went out (with hsi daughter Sarah) to see the original performance - and was blown away by the eleven original songs and the students’ performance. It’s been performed all around the world now - and touched countless lives. All because one creative educator connected with the North Star message - shared it with passion - and helped ripple it across the community - and beyond.

Unfortunately, Debby passed away this spring after a struggle with cancer. We were all devastated to lose such a special, enlightened and progressive educator. The school picked out several songs from the Musical for her funeral service and “Journey On” was played by Tim Beckman and sung by three former McAuliffe students.

If you haven’t heard the musical, give it listen. It is transformational. Share it with others - and you’ll continue the good work that Debby started many years ago. And the North Star will shine even more brightly for ALL students, especially those who are lost or struggling on the journey.

Journey on,
Paul