Report cards don’t measure schools’ worth

In response to the Friday, Sept. 4,  letter to the editor by Shelley Palmer, and in light of the recent publishing of the state “Report Card” of schools, I felt compelled to write this letter.

I am a former teacher at North Rowan Elementary School, a member of the North Rowan community, and a proud parent of two students who are in the North Rowan schools. While I was subbing recently at NRE, students were doing research, and one happened upon the newspaper article in the Post proclaiming that our school had earned an “F.” When asked what that meant, I answered the student that it really means nothing, because that is how I feel.

Some things are simply NOT measurable by the “standards” of this test. When I walk into any of our North area schools, I see teachers, administrators and staff who are highly educated and dedicated. Our schools are continuously put in a bad light by these reports, but our teachers get up each and every day and come to school determined to make a difference, and they do! While many of our students do live in poverty, they still deserve and receive the best education they can in the North schools. They have a place to come where they are loved and safe, and where they can learn, no matter what their abilities or disabilities are. They also have the benefit of being in a diverse environment, where they learn that they can be friends with and work with many different kinds of people.

So no matter how many times we are knocked down by negative publicity or ignorant comments, we will get back up and continue our mission of educating the children at North Rowan, because we are strong. We are family. We are NORTH ROWAN!

— Carol Everhart

Salisbury

Touching act of kindness

Just want to say a great big “Thank You” to Mr. Ron Sweet and his crew at Ram Concrete in Faith. Over 20 years ago my mom and I went there and I bought a sundial bird bath. Last year the dial portion broke off, and the numbers had all worn down. I went to Ram Concrete and was able to speak with Ron Sweet. My intentions were to only ask if there was some way it could be repaired. I explained that the bird bath had such sentimental meaning to me since I lost my mom, and it was something that always reminded me of her.

To my absolute shock Ron told me he still had the mold for this sun dial, and he went on to tell me he’d have it ready for me within a week’s time. I can’t begin to express just how touched I was that he offered to do such a kind thing. It goes to show that so many of these smaller businesses still maintain that one-on-one attention to their customers. This was an act of true kindness, and one that will never be forgotten. The world needs more people like Ron Sweet.

— Fran Pepper

Salisbury

Thanks from veterans 

A special thanks to the Rowan County Runners Club for a donation (for our DAV van project). People really do care for veterans.

— Margaret Keller

Salisbury

Keller is the state judge advocate for  DAV Auxiliary Chapter 96.