Well, we’ve wrapped up another year for Richland Springs ISD. Our last week was one crazy ride. Our precious little kinder kids had their little ceremony; the eighth grade had their graduation ceremony. They are an outstanding group of young students. The sports program had their big night of awards. Then we had the star ceremony of the week, senior graduation 2024. This year, I had a part of the ceremony. I read the credits and degree programs of each student. I was “bust my buttons” proud to be a part of their final night. Mrs. Locker and Mrs. Starr, ably abetted by Jessica Starr closed out a long year of shepherding this talented group of kids. Mrs. Locker has been their sponsor since they were in eighth grade. She and Mrs. Starr have been the eighth-grade sponsors as well. My guess is it’s time for some other teachers to step up and take over.
Both Mackenzie Schuessler and Lili Appleton gave great speeches of encouragement to their fellow classmates. Troy Shelton and Jayden Sutherland gave a year-by-year highlights speech. I was dismayed to hear that I wasn’t as strict as I was in fifth grade. I must be getting old!
Mrs. Farris was pleased to announce that our graduates received a total of $100,000 in scholarships. What an impressive amount. Congratulations to all. Each recipient should give Mrs. Starr a giant hug for pushing them to write those letters.
The seniors decided to decorate the halls for the last day of school. Mrs. Wyatt double pranked them. Using her best principal’s manner, she commanded them to clean the halls and report to ISS. Panicked calls were made to parents, but with a smile and a smirk, she announced they had been double pranked, and sent them on their way. It only seems fair for the teachers to get in a shot every now and then.
The seniors and their sponsors left immediately after the ceremony for their shut-in. I love this practice since for at least one night they are safe from road hazards. They worked on blankets this year. Miss Jessica Starr knitted blankets for seven of the twelve graduates. Each blanket reflecting the personalities of the student. Thank you, Jessica.
Six new members were inducted into the National Honor Society last week. Reagan Ethridge, Jaspur Farris, Jadeyn Fleming, Jacelyn Kilgore, Maggie Bryant, and Calyn Kubin. These students represent our school and the academic standards well.
After several more downpours on Saturday and early Sunday, my road needs more repair. I will have to get Bobby to come and rescue me. Chrissy drove to Dallas on Saturday to attend my granddaughter’s wedding. It made me sad not to attend this important event in her life. Danielle is my first granddaughter, and many hours of my life were spent in her company. Her sister, Sarah, flew in from the Boston area to attend, so I didn’t get to visit her either.
Attention everyone: the Richland Springs Farmer’s Market will begin next Saturday. Anything that is grown, raised, cooked or handmade in San Saba County is welcome. Bring your merchandise to the Tabernacle across from the City Park. The venue will be open for business at 9:00 a.m. Everyone is welcome.
Also, Sunday, June 9th, the Richland Springs Garden Club will have one of the pioneers of rainwater harvesting in Texas. Anyone in San Saba County is welcome to attend this informative meeting at the Community Center in Richland Springs. The meeting will begin at 2:00 p.m. Mr. Billy Kniffen, Water Resource Specialist for Texas AgriLife Extension, will be the speaker. There is no membership required to attend; just bring your interest in water conservation and your questions.
Paula Sue Shannon organized a group of volunteers for this Memorial Day. According to Paula, we have 281 veterans in our little cemetery. There is a veterans board in the cemetery for visitors to read about our heroes who are no longer with us. I encourage you to visit and enjoy.
Parents and staff from Richland Springs received an online survey from our interim administrator, Mr. Friar. This is a state of the school survey designed to give him some idea of the state of the school from a student, parent, and community member. Please take time to fill it out honestly and politely. If you did not get a survey invite, I’m sure his door will be open for comments.
Please send up any prayer you can for the health of Kathy Brockman. She is not doing well. Thurman Saxon has been released to complete his rehab at home. Danny Phillips continues to seek answers for his health problems. There are many others who need our prayers.
Please pray for our country, President, Congress, and the wars around the world. Lord, protect us from our enemies. Please close our border and protect our communities and agents. Most of all, protect our precious troops and their families.