By Maggie Blackwell
mblackwell@salisburypost.com
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times,” Superintendent Dr. Judy Grissom told 34 new teachers at the annual new teacher breakfast Thursday morning in Rowan-Cabarrus Community College’s student center.
She alluded to the worst of times in reference to the recent budget cuts mandated by the N.C. General Assembly. The local school system lost more than $3 million in addition to specific cuts in programs, personnel and textbooks.
The best of times, she said, could be had in the camaraderie of dedicated educators, hard work and achievement with local students, despite any budgetary concerns. She stressed that the Rowan-Salisbury School System is “not a school system, but a system of schools.”
Randy Welch, chairman of the Rowan County Chamber of Commerce board, and Dr. Jerry Chandler, vice president of administration, human resources, and advancement at Rowan-Cabarrus also spoke at the gathering. The Chamber and RCCC sponsored the event.
Cleveland Elementary teacher Joy Jenkins, the 2009 Teacher of the Year, talked about being a 21st Century Teacher, which involves using new technologies to reach students. With a song she wrote to the tune of a Beach Boys favorite playing, she entertained teachers with lyrics and antics centered on the progress of a school year.
Bob Wright, president of the Chamber, said his organization has sponsored the breakfast for many years. “We’re happy to do it. Our teachers are important and we are pleased to thank them for their hard work.”
About 120 attended the event, including principals, staff, teachers and school board members.