There was a wonderful turnout for the Meet the Teachers night last Wednesday. I met the cutest little boy in the parking lot. He looked out his window and introduced himself and asked me my name. When I asked him what grade he would enter, he proudly told me his age, and I responded with the grade and teacher.
Both he and his brother are new to the school this year. We have a few retired and returning teachers on the roster. That may have been the reason behind the large turnout. I toured the classrooms, and I must say we have creative teachers. I would want to go to school here. I had multiple parents come to the old science lab, and the comments were positive. Thanks to Carol Bryant, Santiago our maintenance man, and the boys, Zeke and Luis, the entire room has been revamped and sparkles like a new room. I’m excited about the school year. I hope my teaching is as good as this beautiful old room.
Mr. Friar and Mr. Faircloth have been busy explaining the phone guidelines, campus rules and proper classroom conduct. They also explained the consequences for unruly behavior. I think the hardest thing for me is the easy camaraderie between students and teachers that often leads to disrespect. Since I’m OLD school, I tend to reinforce the lines of what I consider proper communication between our youth and their teachers. I don’t want them to find a slang name for me. I like the one I’ve used for the last 54 years. I recognize that I’m dated, but even if I recognize there is no disrespect behind the names; I don’t like the familiarity.
The state bill banning cell phones during the instructional day went well the first few days. As you walk into the school, there is a row of clear lockers that hold cell phones and watches. Each student has a personal combination and can check on their phone throughout the day. Some students have opted to leave their phones in their cars. Although this is permitted, our recent scorching temperatures are going to cause havoc with the electronics.
The coming weeks will see if this peaceful transition will continue.
Our first fifth quarter meal will be September 5th. For newcomers to the community, every home game, the First Baptist Church hosts an after-game meal for athletes, coaches, cheerleaders, and community members. This gives fans an opportunity to meet our athletes and celebrate game highlights with them. Shiloh Church joins in presenting this event by providing part of the meal and helping with serving and clean-up. Are you ready for some football!
We are still feeling the loss of Johnie Reeves. We are saddened to report the passing of Debbie Maxey Crosby this past week.
There are multiple prayer requests and urgent sickness needs. If you have a moment, please try to spend a few minutes with one of our shut-ins. I would like to remind the community that there is food available at the First Baptist Church for anyone who comes on the first and third Mondays around 5:30 p.m. There are no questions to answer or lists to sign. Simply come by and get a box of groceries. If it’s an emergency, call Franky Soto Sr., and he or Esmerelda will help you.
We have a mess everywhere we look - countries at war, hostages starving to death, drugs, police and firefighters under attack, and crime in big cities rampant. Please pray for all of them.
Most of all, pray for our precious troops and their families.