Dec. 16, 2003
By Staff
One reason education system is such a mess
To the editor:
I was absolutely amazed by the slant of the story about the lower poverty rate in Mississippi. I thought for sure that someone would say how glad they are we have fewer hungry children in our state. We are making progress in the war against poverty.
But, as I read the article, I found only complaints. With less poverty, we get less federal money for schools. Never mind that if there are fewer students, the programs actually need less money. It's all about what the federal government can give us.
I searched in vain for one educator's word of joy. If you listen to them, they would only be happy if we had more poverty. That way, we could get more government money.
According to the educators, that's what it's all about. No wonder our education system is in such a mess.
Ralph Henson
Meridian
Excellent field trip to Outback
To the editor:
Recently, my Career Discovery students were invited to Outback Steakhouse to gain knowledge about kitchen safety and the restaurant business. This field trip was both educational and entertaining.
Russ Smiley, the proprietor, welcomed us warmly and explained his expectations of the students while they were "in house." He also had an opportunity to show off the Outback Hummer with several students. They were thrilled and impressed.
Two Outback employees were especially accommodating to us. First of all, Melanie Stuckey was instrumental in making our field trip plans a reality. She was congenial and enthusiastic during all of the conversations we held prior to and during the visit. Secondly, Tripp James displayed a special talent for keeping the attention of seventh grade students. He was loads of fun. Both of these employees deserve a huge pat on the back for giving us their time and attention.
In addition to Ms. Stuckey and Mr. James, many other Outback employees helped make the field trip special to us. Denice Geisler, Shone Brewster, Tony Little, Keith Klotch, Jerome Adkins, Mike Hill, and Angel Smith all deserve the "Atta Boy/Girl" award.
During the visit, my students enjoyed learning more about Australia. Being able to see the artifacts and decor of the restaurant and have these items explained was a highlight of the trip. The seventh graders were also excited about Outback's "scratch" kitchen and its workings. They were engulfed by many sights and smells as they walked through the "back of the house."
Outback served a complimentary lunch to us including a tasty chicken breast sandwich and fresh, hot french fries. This was a real treat. Visiting with all of the employees was fun as well. My students got a real kick out of Roger Cole and his famous rap abilities.
I am truly grateful to all of the Outback Steakhouse staff and employees for making the visit a wonderful learning opportunity for my students. It is a pleasure to work with yet another local business that is willing to help my students make informed career choices.
Mary Hill Shular
Career Discovery teacher
West Lauderdale Middle School
