Three Little Words

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Even though it seems like summer just started, we will soon be hearing the words that strike fear in the hearts of many 7 to 17 year olds.  It's the same three words that bring on a comfortable smile and sigh of relief that many overworked Moms, Dads and Grandparents try to hide. Three little words; "BACK TO SCHOOL"
It's a Big Deal,  the beginning of a new school year is a major seasonal marker for this community and everyone in it.  It's also a huge challenge for teachers, coaches, administrators, support staff and many others who show up as part of the mission to make sure that nearly every school-age child from all across the county appears in the same desk every morning by 8:00 am with a full day of planned learning prepared for them.  It's pretty amazing when you stop and think about it.

It’s a Big Deal,  Education provides a sizeable portion of the county's economy.  Our schools are major contributors to local business, and these same businesses, civic groups and volunteers return the support.  One example is the 18th Annual Book Bag Drive.  This year's event led by founder Ronnie Schuemake will be held July 31st and will once again be a rallying point for the start of the school year.  A Coat Drive sponsored by Rev. Keith McKinney of the A and O Outreach Center also demonstrates how private donations help support local students.  Mr. Shon Corley and the "Back to School Supply Drive" for eight years has provided classroom supplies and a day of fun to help make sure students are prepared for their return to school. This event will be on July 31st also. Many other area churches, businesses, and groups also hold events throughout the entire year.
It's a big deal.  Education provides so many services and programs and opens so many doors.  Most importantly, however, it enables the first step and sustains the never-ending journey for every student who wants the adventure of learning.  Education propels them to ever-better places and stages in life.  Education is expensive, but at the same time it is priceless. And if you want to see what the future of this community will be, just pay attention to what's happening at the Twin City schools, and the Swainsboro schools and at David Emanuel Academy.
So good luck and best wishes for a great year to all the students, teachers and everyone else who makes this amazing process happen.  For the rest of us, lets show some appreciation to the folks who will be teaching the folks who will be in charge of the future!  And finally, let’s all thank goodness that we have a school system and a community here in Emanuel County that understands how much promise and potential lies in just those three little words.