School district plans to honor its own

SIKESTON - Over the past five years, 60 individuals were recognized for their dedication to Sikeston Public Schools and for making a difference in the R-6 District.

Some of those who've gone above and beyond were named to the local Honors Wall, the rest to the Hall of Fame. In either case, the award not only says a great deal about the recipients, but their strong belief in the school district as well.

Steering committee members are anxious to add more names to the plaques displayed in the Field House."It's a wonderful way to honor people who have meant so much to our school district, whether they've given their time or shown their support by serving on a committee, the teaching staff or administrative staff," remarked Sally Lape, committee member.

"They've given their time and helped make our district what it is."Nominees currently being accepted for the Hall of Fame are the names of individuals who've received All-State and/or All-American honors for their athletic ability. Through their participation in high school sports, they brought recognition to their school and community.

"Our community is a spirited community and that spirit is shown in our athletic department," noted Lape. "We are very proud of them and their service to the community. When Sikeston travels to other communities I think people are amazed at the amount of support our community gives our athletes."

A 2001 Hall of Fame inductee, Buddy Spears was applauded for making the district its best through his efforts as a former basketball coach, tennis coach, attendance officer and transportation director.

"It was quite an honor and a shock," Spears said about finding out he was to be inducted last year. "It was a very special honor, I didn't feel like I deserved it because I just had some wonderful kids. It makes me feel very humbled."

"I think our athletes feel a bond to the Bulldog spirit and like to come back, you can see it in their faces," added Lape. "It's a very moving part of the ceremony to see these individuals come back. It's a very humbling experience for them and a very moving experience for them and their families to reconnect with Sikeston High School."

The Honor Wall recognizes another special group, those who've displayed outstanding achievements and meritorious service to Sikeston Public Schools.

"These individuals have the best interest of our children in mind which is so important to recognize, especially when public education is getting so much bad publicity," Lape said.

"It's nice to hear about people who are dedicated to supporting the school district any way they can and to be part of making our school system a challenging one, one that's looked upon by the rest of the state as a strong system."

One of those individuals deemed as worthy of Honor Wall status is Jeannie Williams. A writer, educator and motivational speaker, Williams' ability to motivate children to learn has earned her many awards.

One of the most memorable honors, she said, was becoming an inductee last year.

"It was a great joy and I deeply and sincerely appreciated the consideration," Williams said. "When I think back on that moment of honor I am reminded of the many happy and rewarding hours I spent as a school board member. I cherish the opportunity to serve our community and I am grateful for the high measure of understanding and support which is always given to me. Touch a child's heart and you will be remembered. Touch a child's mind and the magic will never end."

The deadline to receive nominations is Aug. 2. The induction ceremony is scheduled for Oct. 4 during the Sikeston/Farmington football game. A tail gate party for honorees as well as past honorees and their families will begin at 6 p.m.

Nomination applications are available at the Board of Education office, 1002 Virginia St., and one will run in Wednesday's edition of the newspaper. Only those individuals nominated through the applications will be considered.

For more information contact the Board of Education office at 472-2581.