From the Desk of the Lower School Director - 11

This week we are celebrating Red Ribbon Week, during which time we encourage our students to avoid drugs, alcohol and cigarettes. Our counselor, Jill Pate, will be on WDLS throughout the week talking to the students about the best ways to say “no.” There are activities planned each day to acknowledge the importance of staying drug-free. Also, students are invited to bring canned goods each day to be donated to the area soup kitchens. 

The Halloween parade is scheduled for this Friday, Oct. 29, at 8:30 a.m. The students will go down to Little Tiger Field and parade around the walking path. Following the parade, songs will be sung in the gym by various classes in celebration of Halloween under the direction of music teacher Ashley Henry.

We look forward to seeing all of your families and friends for our annual Fall Festival sponsored by Tiger Pride on Saturday, Oct. 30, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. There are a lot of fun activities planned for the children. Shane’s Rib Shack will offer lunch, which also includes a beverage and dessert. Take-out is available. Advanced tickets are available in the office through Wednesday noon. An adult ticket is $8; a child’s ticket is $4. Parents are encouraged to bring family members and friends as this is a great way to showcase Darlington’s Lower School. Volunteers are needed (including our dads) for set-up starting at 10 a.m. and clean-up following the event. We are expecting beautiful weather, so please come out and support this event.

The Annual Fund campaign is underway. Dr. Jim W. Shealy Jr. is the Lower School chairperson of the Annual Fund Leadership Team. Because tuition dollars only covers approximately 80% of a Darlington education, this school-wide endeavor raises additional funds to support the costs in educating your child. Please know that all gifts make a difference. Your support and participation are most appreciated and welcomed.

Upcoming events that promote the 5th “R” (Response to the Community) include the Warm Clothing Drive starting Nov. 1, Angel Tree Project starting Nov. 30 and Toys for Tots on Dec. 3. These outreach projects benefit children and families of Greater Rome and Floyd County. Warm clothing can be dropped off at the Primary Circle or Thornwood. Please look for the containers marked “Warm Clothing Drive.” These items will be collected until Nov. 12. 

The admission season for 2011-12 is now well underway. We appreciate our parents’ referrals as this is the best way to recruit new students and families to our school. As always, we thank you for your continued support. Please contact Lea Duncan in the Admission Office with any referrals you may have for the upcoming school year.