I can close my eyes and see myself squatting on the cracked blacktop with my best friend Wendy playing jacks. The double-dutch ropes are cracking the ground somewhere over my shoulder.
My second-grade teacher Ms. Biddle’s room was decorated with her love of frogs. Mr. Teribury’s fifth-grade class was where my first crush broke my heart. Funny the things we remember even after 35 years.
It whispers to us on Wisdom Road like an old friend. I didn’t get the meaning of the street name until I was an adult.
The school where time stood still continues to educate the children of Peachtree City just like it has for over 50 years. I walked the hallways and now my children do.
Kindergarten teacher Ms. McCoy was there to welcome both of my children, just as her sister did for me and still does at Booth Middle School.
Current third-grade teacher Mr. Bailey made a lasting impression on both of my children with his approachable demeanor and quiet graces that make all his students respect him.
This fall, my little school received a big honor. Peachtree City Elementary was the founding elementary school in the city and one of several elementary schools in the state of Georgia to receive a 2011 National Blue Ribbon award from the Department of Education.
The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes public and non-public elementary, middle, and high schools where students achieve at very high levels and/or where the achievement gap is narrowing. The program sets a standard of excellence for all schools striving for the highest level of achievement.
The staff is a dedicated group, who make everyone feel welcome and safe. The parents who volunteer continue to amaze me with the time, talents and dedication they are able to spare in this crazy time crunch world we live in.
I don’t need a blue ribbon to tell me that the school my brothers, children and I attended is special. I can feel it in the spirit of its sturdy brick walls and see it in the smiling faces of the children who pass me. I hope it continues to welcome children of Peachtree City for years to come.
In mid-November, Principal Berryman had the honor of representing our school at a ceremony in Washington D.C.
Congratulations, Dr. Berryman, Assistant Principal Mrs. Oot and all the current and former teachers, parents and students. After 50 years, we’ve earned it.
Tamara Allen Moore
Peachtree City, Ga.
