Mako Family Reflects On Gratitude During Thanksgiving Break
Superintendent Highlights Success Challenges And Community Strength
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Orange Beach City Schools is preparing for a week of rest and reflection as the community enters Thanksgiving break. District leaders say the pause is a chance for families, students, and staff to slow down and appreciate how far they have come together. The message going into the holiday is one of gratitude, resilience, and pride in the Mako community.
Orange Beach Elementary School and Orange Beach Middle and High School will be closed Thursday, Thanksgiving Day and Friday. Regular school operations are scheduled to resume on Monday, December 1st. District officials say the holiday schedule gives students time to recharge before returning to finish the semester.
In a written message to families, Superintendent Randy Wilkes addressed the Mako Family. He expressed appreciation not only for visible accomplishments but also for the hard work that often takes place behind the scenes. “Today, we are especially thankful — not only for our incredible successes, but also for the challenges that have stretched us, shaped us, and pushed us to grow,” Wilkes wrote.
He described the school system’s journey as one marked by both victories and obstacles. “Every victory has lifted us higher, and every setback has made us stronger, wiser, and more committed to excellence,” he said. Wilkes added that this mindset reflects the district’s core values, saying, “That’s the Mako Way.”
“We’re also excited to share something truly special: a brand-new song celebrating our district — ‘98 Strong! The Mako Way,’” he told families. “The lyrics were crafted with one AI tool, the music composed with another, but the heart, energy, and video come from the best non-AI talent around — our people.” He emphasized that “Together, we brought it to life,” underscoring the teamwork involved.
You can view the song’s video below. The performance showcases students, staff, and community members who helped turn the idea into reality. Leaders say the project is another example of how technology can support creativity without replacing the people at the center of the schools.
As the break begins, the superintendent encouraged the community to use the time for reflection. “As we step into this season of gratitude, we hope you’ll pause to reflect on your own blessings — the successes, the lessons, and the people who stand beside you,” Wilkes wrote. He also shared a hopeful message for families celebrating the holiday.
“We pray that you and your families enjoy a joyful, peaceful, and deeply blessed Thanksgiving season,” he said. The note closes with three words that he used to describe the district’s spirit this year: “Proud. Grateful. Inspired.”
Wilkes ended his message by reminding families that growth is an ongoing process for both students and adults. “Here’s to the journey — every step, every lesson, every success,” he wrote. As Orange Beach City Schools heads into Thanksgiving break, district leaders say they remain focused on embracing that journey together, the Mako Way.
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