As we showed them true,

How to read and write,

We started with a-e-i-o-u.

They followed the path,

That twisted and turned,

Learned all their math,

Showed off grades they earned.

They grew in mind, body, 'n

soul,

Making friends for keeps,

Deciding life's role,

Knowledge gained by heaps.

Education-many types,

many kinds,

Theories, facts, figures,

Worked like sponges in their

minds,

Soaking up thoughts, simple

and true.

We watched their growth,

And guided their way,

For their education-both,

Once learned, can't be

taken away.

- Carol Lunsford 2003

I urge all former students

to take the time to remember your former educators on Nov. 16. Make a

call, write a letter, send a thank-you note to that one educator that

stands out the most in your memory. One of your educators helped you to

become the success that you are. The influence of that person will be

with you always.

I, myself, remember my first

grade teacher clearly. It was through modeling some of the methods she

used in teaching me to read that I was able to reach some of my students.

FCREA is a service organization

in that the members volunteer time with the youth of the county. The association

presents a scholarship to one graduating senior from the county who plans

to enter the education profession. The next monthly meeting of FCREA will

be Nov. 20 at10:30 a.m. at the Right on Thyme restaurant in Fayetteville.

This meeting will also be the annual fundraising auction for the scholarship

fund. All retired educators in the county are invited to attend the meeting.

Bring a gift ready to be auctioned. Local businesses are also invited

to donate items to be auctioned. FCREA is a member of the Fayette County

Chamber of Commerce.

Carol Lunsford

President, FCREA 2003-2004