Schools
State Superintendent Presents Malcom Bridge Elementary with Award
The school, chosen as a 2010 School of Excellence in the category of "Top 10 percent in Student Achievement," received a trophy from the state and a $1,000 check from Georgia Natural Gas.
The entire student body of gathered in an assembly Monday morning to welcome Georgia Superintendent of Schools John Barge.
Barge visited the school to congratulate students, faculty, and staff for being named a in the category of "Top 10 percent in Student Achievement."
Only 22 schools across Georgia earned the distinction in one of 2 categories, the other being "Greatest Continuous Gains," which, in the 10th district, went to Lavonia Elementary School in Franklin County.
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This year, instead of a dinner attended by representatives of each school, Barge is personally visiting winners, Superintendent of Oconee County Schools John Jackson said, as he introduced Barge.
Jackson said the hard work on behalf of teachers, students, and parents is not motivated by the possibility of winning awards. Instead, he said, the motivation is intrinsic.
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"Winning this award is just icing on the cake," Jackson remarked.
"You guys are in a very, very small, important group of schools that are among the best in the state of Georgia, and we are here to honor you today and recognize your hard work," Barge said.
As he addressed students, Barge urged them to continue to make good decisions.
"Choices that you make now can truly lead to a better life down the road," he said.
Gina Niederhauser, program manager for Georgia Natural Gas' TrueBlue Schools presented Principal Andrea Roper with a $1,000 check. Barge also handed Roper a trophy adorned with stars.
Vickie Callahan, account manager for United Healthcare, announced a surprise "Stress-free Day" to thank teachers and staff.
"United Healthcare will have massage therapists come to your school on your day of choice and give every staff member a massage," she said to the cheers of teachers in the audience.
After the program, school board member Kim Argo said she was proud of the accomplishment.
"They worked hard and they deserve it," she said.
Board member Mark Thomas said it was an honor for everybody involved.
Malcom Bridge Elementary was also named a by the Governor's Office of Student Achievement for the 2009-2010 school year.
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