One of the best things about traveling around our beautiful country is meeting so many inspiring people!
Last week we stopped at George C. Hall Elementary in Mobile, AL. There we met Principal Terri Tomlinson and Counselor Mr. Al Rawls. Ms. Tomlinson and Mr. Rawls were part of a major “turnaround” in Hall Elementary’s history. Hall used to consistently be the lowest performing school in their district. Ms. Tomlinson and Mr. Rawls are part of the new team brought in to change that…and change, they did! Hall has now been named a “Turnaround Model School” by the US Dept. of Education! Ms. Tomlinson and her staff have helped to create an atmosphere of learning, achievement, and respect at this school. One of the most interesting things I heard Ms. Tomlinson say was that “expectations” at the school were raised. The faculty at Hall Elementary are expected to perform at a high level, as are the students. The students are expected to do their best work, respect their teachers and respect each other. And, the parents and community are expected to be involved! Because of these raised expectations, Hall has seen a renewed sense of purpose and accomplishment. Their story is an inspiring story. You can see some of it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=suE3HRmeo5Q
We hope that the Super Citizen Program can not only add to their success, but encourage the students and faculty in this school and in this community to even greater heights. I was personally inspired by the faculty at this school and their passion for the students. What a great American story of working hard and accomplishing goals for a better life!
Today we visited Belmont Elementary in Hopkinsville, KY. We were pleased to meet Ms. Arnelle Wesley and Principal Anita Hopson.
I could tell that expectations at Belmont were very high as well! Not only did the students and Belmont choir get us started today with some lovely patriotic songs, but they continued their great singing throughout the presentation.
Ms. Hopson introduced me, and wrapped up the show for us. At the end of the show, she told me and the students that she expects Belmont to the B.E.S.T.! The students seemed to share her attitude! They were excited about their school and making it a wonderful place to learn! They believe that part of being the BEST is being a great citizen in your community and country. That is part of what attracted them to the Super Citizen Program!
We want to also say a special ‘thank-you’ to Angela Martin of Local15 News in Mobile, AL and to the Communications & Community Education Director of Christian County Schools, Heather Aubin for joining us at the shows!
We come to these schools to bring a great performance and to kick-off a great program that we believe will be inspiring and empowering to the students and faculty, but in the process, we have been inspired. We have been inspired by the passion, commitment, and hard work of those that we meet along the way. We wish the best to these principals, teachers, parents, students and all others that are investing their lives into the next generation-the Next Great Americans!