Today was Spirit Day at school with classes walking laps in the gym to earn donations for our Nature Trail, Camp Spearhead, and most importantly, for health and friendly competition. Classes had team names, banners, and much enthusiasm! Thanks to Linda Thigpen, Samantha Stansell, Katherine Gantt and Cindy Brown for the work they did to put this together and make it happen.

The Run, Walk, and Roll last Saturday was lots of fun, and the weather, though chilly to begin with, really cooperated. It warmed considerably by time for the actual events. Our PTA folks worked very hard on this, and we also had assistance from high school students from Eastside and from middle school Klaver Klub girls. The Klaver Klub presented a check for $5,000 to PTA president, Susie Robinson--- money they had raised to support the Run, Walk and Roll.

On Monday of this week, students from Beck Academy came to school to present money they earned during their spirit week and that they designated for the Washington Center/Sara Collins nature trail. I guess you can tell that the community has really stepped up to support us with the nature trail initiative, and we are very grateful for everyone’s efforts.

This week on Tuesday the SC Dog Therapy folks came to the main campus, and on Wednesday, a brass ensemble from the Greenville Symphony EdReach program performed to the delight of many of our students. We had classes going out to shop and dine and bowl, and we are having more and more folks go to various parks for picnics and to participate in activities such as horseback riding.   

At Washington Center at Hollis today, the staff hosted a breakfast for Early Interventionists who work with BabyNet. EIs are the folks that facilitate young children’s transitions from infant to school age services. Thanks to Barbara Bingham, Heather Petrusick, Sharon Russo, and Kim Skipper for organizing this event. Also today, Traysie Amick from the Children’s Little Theater was at our Hollis campus, performing for students there.  

On our school website you will find a link to a survey that the state’s Education Oversight Committee is asking parents to complete. They want parent input regarding education accountability, and they will appreciate your taking the time to share your opinions.

Student teachers Amber Woods and Ryana Smith have completed their internship; we thank them for their work with our students and wish them success as they move forward in their careers. 

On this coming Monday, Senator Mike Fair will observe testing at Washington Center @ Hollis to see our concerns with the requirements of alternate testing. We welcome Senator Fair to our school!

Next week we also have Special Olympics at Furman for many of our students, and certainly parents and friends are welcome.   

As a reminder, Friday, April 22 and Monday, April 25 are make-up snow days with school in session.

Green house plant sale is still going strong until all plants are sold.