WICHITA, Kansas, August 18, 2008 – When school started last week at Pleasant Valley Middle School, a familiar face wasn’t around. In fact, he was thousands of miles away. But thanks to modern technology, Principal Mike Archibeque was able to address his students Monday and wish them well for this upcoming year.

“Sand, sand and more sand,” Archibeque said.

It was a comical description of Kuwait from Army Reserve Captain Mike Archibeque, who’s been stationed there since March. As for questions from students at the job he left behind at Pleasant Valley Middle School, most revolved around food.

"For Army chow, it is pretty good food,” Archibeque said. “There are plenty of dining facilities, and they all have their own flavors."

Archibeque also received great news about students performing very well in some recent testing.

"I knew you guys had it in you,” he said. “And I want to commend you for your efforts. And what I would like to do is challenge you to not only do well for yourselves, but to help others perform to your high standards."

Although seeing their leader in uniform brought tremendous pride, students say Mr. Archibeque inspired them long before this day.

"Because of him, I joined Leadership/R.O.T.C, and it's a great program,” said eighth grade student Rafael Romero.

While it was fantastic for students and staff to visit with their beloved principal, everyone at Pleasant Valley Middle School is focusing on April 2009. That’s when Mr. Archibeque will be there in person.