Praise God; rush week is over. The caps have been thrown, family hugs and best wishes given, and the storm is over. It was a momentous week.
I came to this school district and community in 2005. When school started in August, Mr. Fowler hired me to substitute teach for a teacher who was going to be gone long-term. I guess he was pleased because he hired me as a permanent sub for the rest of the year. I didn’t hear from him all summer, so I found a teaching job in Brownwood. He called me the first day of school to offer me a job, but I was already working. The following year, I was hired as a full-time teacher in fifth grade. The rest of the story is in the history book.
It has been a marvelous 15-year story. For parents who wonder about our little school, I can assure you that we have wonderful, loving teachers. They love their students and treasure each little personality. Some are more challenging than others, but with low student ratios, there is time to work with that little one that needs extra help. It’s a wonderful place to be. I will miss my teacher friends and the hugs and smiles from the kids. It’s been good.
First Baptist Church was busy this week. There were practices for graduation, decoration parties and a new tradition this year, parent/student tables. Of course, this meant parents had to produce ideas and take the time to decorate, but the fellowship hall was a delight to view. Parents, you did a fantastic job, and your student should be grateful for your efforts. The ceremony was performed to a packed house, and Mr. Womack kept the proceedings moving along in a timely manner. His speech on the value of time was excellent. The community showered the graduates with money from different scholarship groups. I hope the graduates were humbled by the outpouring of love shown to them. Mrs. Starr and Jessica Starr are to be commended for the countless hours of preparation that made this a stellar event.
Congratulations to graduates and parents as plans are made for the future. A special shout out to Sierra Tharp, Valedictorian, and Savannah Perry, Salutatorian, for their outstanding academic and athletic achievements. Everyone in this class of 12 went to state in one event or more.
Saturday was eventful as well. Around 150 bikers paraded around town to celebrate the passing of a fellow biker. I’m told when the song I’ll Fly Away was sung, poetic license was taken, and everyone sang I’ll ride away. Please keep the Collins family in your prayers.
Sunday morning, Pastor Mack announced that a special luncheon was to be given by Mondo Garcia next Sunday. Mondo is planning a benefit fish fry and balloon launch for the Uvalde community. Donations will be taken to assist them. Everyone is invited to participate. More information will be posted on the community Facebook page. As of now, it is Sunday, after church, at the tabernacle.
Kristie Perry will be firming up plans for VBS this summer. Parents, if you are interested in helping, please let Kristie know. We will have material out at the Fourth of July celebration. There is also talk of some tutoring time if needed. I’ll address that after more discussion.
Prayers are needed for all the shooting victims and their families, for Ukraine, for our country, for our border patrol officers, first responders and police officers. Please pray for Ethelyn Smith’s family. Our country needs a return to peace and civility. Praise God for the rain. There was some damage from winds, but most of us benefitted from the two-inch rain. Seniors, please proceed with caution; you are precious. While praying, pray for our precious fallen soldiers, veterans and active-duty soldiers and their families. God bless America.