Chuck Hughes, Board of Education
♦ I was honored to be invited to breakfast and a tour of Cleveland Elementary School this morning. I was impressed with the school on several levels. I’ve seen many schools that have staff dedicated to teaching – Cleveland was no exception – however, never have I seen so many students dedicated to learning. Although there was an occasional squeak in the 2nd floor, which can be oiled, I was surprised at the 80 + year old building’s soundness. It was reminiscent of the school where I spent my early years in Waynesboro, VA. Like my old school, it was small and comfortable enough that everyone knew everyone else.
The tour was led by several students who were obviously proud of their school. I stopped by each classroom and spoke to the children from Kindergarten to the 5th grade. They were very open to a stranger asking what they were doing at that time. At each grade level, someone spoke up and gave details about the project or subject they were involved in.
I was also especially impressed at the atmosphere of respect and pride the students showed, not only for their teachers, but for their peers as well.
Oh, yeah, did I mention the excellent smorgasbord they set up for us?
