Middle School Report
How sweet it is ...
Principal Ava Johnson

In an earlier article, I quoted an African proverb about it taking a whole village to raise a child. Once again the village of Troup has made the students of Troup Middle School their priority.

In the late fall, a breakfast was held to find ways to strengthen our children to prevail against the forces of nature that could hinder their opportunities. City officials, Troup Police Department, ministers from area churches, counselors, concerned parents, grandparents, board members, school administration, and community members at large met to develop a way to provide uncommon support for Troup's youth. As a result of this meeting, a team went into action searching the best vehicle to use. The decision was made to use "True Love Waits."

"True Love Waits" is a scripture-based abstinence program. Upon making a stand, volunteers came from all areas to participate. The group was spearheaded by Jim Tollett, Tammy Tollett and Shelly Wilson. Several groups of prayer warriors went to work praying for the program's success. Another group of people made sure that the children had snacks after school prior to attending the afterschool classes. Others made sure the word got out to parents about the program.

Parents eagerly embraced the notion of the class. Every parent was grateful that others cared about the future of their children. Parents gave permission for their child to attend. An amazing response occurred -- 101 students participated.

Nine volunteers studied the materials and instructed the classes. The core group made sure that they coordinated the how, the where and all other aspects of the course of study. Many faceless but generous individuals took care of refreshments for my children.

As a climax activity, a ring ceremony was held at the Troup High School Auditorium. An anonymous donor bought every child that completed the program, again 101 children, a True Love Waits sterling silver ring. On Monday, Jan. 22 at 7 p.m., the children came to publicly profess their desire to save themselves for marriage as well as stand against using substances that can harm their futures.

Not only did the children come, put their parents, siblings, grandparent, friends and other family members came to show their support for the decision each child made. How blessed our children are to have such caring families. Their parents or significant adult presented each child with their ring and vowed to support them on their journey to adulthood. Talk about an emotional experience!

Area ministers conducted the ceremony along with Mr. Tollett. The ministers asked for God's blessing upon our children.

In Troup, we may not have the fanciest homes, cars, clothes, or other worldly things but when it comes to love and support, there is no greater place to live. As a public educator for the last 30 years, I count myself blessed to serve in a community that can say our children come first.

I want to extend my deepest appreciation to all of the workers and faceless hundreds of people that carried the water for my children. Our learning community genuinely cares about educating the whole child. God has blessed Troup!