Having energetic and dynamic speaker Harvey Alston on hand was a sure-fire way to make sure everyone had a "HAPPY" Opening Day for the 2014-15 Russellville school year.

As Alston explained his "HAPPY" philosophy (Heart, Attitude, People, Pride, and You), there were plenty of bemused chuckles and seasoned nods of agreement.

He ended his speech with an interactive demonstration of the differences between good, better, and best, urging teachers to expect the very best from themselves and their students.

Russellville Mayor Mark Stratton and Russellville Independent School District Board Members James Milam, Devonna Page, and Phillip West were also in attendance for Opening Day. Stratton offered words of encouragement to teachers and staff members and gave an invocation. Milam read a poem that he written for the occasion and led the group in the alma mater.

After Superintendent Leon Smith and principals Lisa White and Kim McDaniel introduced new teachers and staff members, Davonna Page introduced the guest speaker.

At the conclusion of Alston's talk, teachers and staff were dismissed back to their individual schools for further training.