Schools

Heroes and Students Honored at Daniell MS

East Cobb County PTAs were recognized last week for their participation in the 17th annual "Honoring Our Heroes" Writing Program.

Thanks to Susan McCullough of the East Cobb County Council of PTAs for sending us this information and photos about last week's reception for the "Honoring Our Heroes" essay contest winners at Daniell Middle School:

Last Thursday, 17 East Cobb County PTA's were recognized for their participation in the 17th annual Honoring Our Heroes Writing Program. ECCC received 77 essay in total -- one winner per grade level from each school in addition to all Special Writers. All student authors, their families and heroes, their local unit principals, PTA presidents, and Heroes chairs, and key CCSD personnel were invited to Daniell Middle School. Musical virtuoso and Walton senior Will Fulkerson performed for the 200+ in attendance while guests enjoyed a delightful dessert reception hosted for the third year by the award-winning Daniell PTSA.

The Honoring Our Heroes essay contest was started in 1995 by ECCC to encourage students to discover, honor, and write about real-life heroes who've made a personal impact. This year's writers honored their family members -- fathers, mothers, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and siblings, and teachers -- including Sandy Hook first grade teacher, Victoria Soto. Students wrote about adults and children who shared their time and talents, showing compassion and generosity while serving as inspiring role models. The common theme was involvement, with students recognizing those who came to games and lunch, played outside, taught, volunteered, and shared wisdom. The Heroes in attendance wore stickers proclaiming, "I'm Someone's Hero!"

Three students read their essays. Sam Cooney, Kincaid fifth grader, wrote about his Target teacher, Mandy Robertson, who encouraged him to believe in himself and to love trying new things. Ian McCullough, the seventh grade winner from Daniell, honored his recently deceased cousin Arthur Elliott for being a good role model and living a full life. Wheeler ninth grader Alissa Ji's essay about her violin teacher, Ying Zhuo, was a moving tribute for her teacher, counselor, trusted adult, and friend.

Anita Hagins-Jones, co-president of ECCC, told the students and families how proud she was of their participation in such a worthy program, after Board of Ed member David Banks brought greetings from the Cobb County School District. Also in attendance were Board of Ed chair Randy Scamihorn, Dr. Doreen Griffeth and Ed Thayer, Areas 3 & 4 Assistant Superintendents, respectively).

"It's clear from these essays that our children are looking to their families and teachers to be role models," said program co-chair Susan McCullough; "After reading these essays, I'd say we're doing a good job."

Find out what's happening in East Cobbwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

This was co-chair Laurie Rashidi-Yazd's third year organizing the program for ECCC; "It is so rewarding to work with dedicated volunteers and families who value involvement with their children."

Find out what's happening in East Cobbwith free, real-time updates from Patch.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from East Cobb