Raves, Rants & Roses

ROSES: Send raves and roses to two TISD principals.

First, to Mrs. Jane Bidlack of Bell Elementary Global Communications Academy for the wonderful diplomas she handed to the Class of 2008.

The covers were so nice looking. It was such a nice surprise.

I know fifth-graders do not have to have a "graduation ceremony," but, not having that available when I went to school, has made it even more enjoyable to see three of my four children graduate from fifth grade. The certificates, along with a graduation portrait, made it all the more special.

Secondly, to Claude Lane of Moore Magnet School because his involvement made this year's eighth-grade trip so special. The kids went to Six Flags only to have the park close the rides on several occasions due to bad weather. They were offered rain checks, but everyone chose to make the most of the day.

Well, Mr. Lane and his staff, unbeknownst to them, ended up getting rain checks after all, and after spending quite a bit of the day on Thursday trying to get enough buses to go back to Arlington, let the children know that, if they wanted, they would be getting a second trip to Six Flags the next Monday.

It was a spur of the moment announcement, but one that was met with surprise and joy.

The kids had a great time.

Neither principal had to do what each one of them did, but I just wanted to recognize them both, along with their staff, for making the year end on such a bright note. I hope that you all have a blessed summer.

Laura Pike
Tyler