Parents need to take their children back from the streets and other elements that keep them from getting a good education.
That was the focus of Rita F. Pierson”s remarks Thursday night at the Lowndes County School District Parent Appreciation Program at the Trotter Convention Center.
Pierson, an educational consultant from Houston, Texas, has been in education for more than 30 years, including stints as a teacher, counselor and administrator. She spoke to parents and students about how children have not changed, but the way they are being raised has.
“Children of today are just like we were. They still get into mischief; they still do not want to do chores when asked,” she said.
When she was a child, both of Pierson”s parents were teachers; when she came home from school and completed her homework, she had to leave it out for them review.
“Parents need to do that today. Parents need to take their children back and teach them to be respectful and have manners,” she said.
Pierson said being a parent is more than an art; it is a challenge.
“A parent could have five children, and they have different personalities. A parents will have to work to meet that challenge,” she said.
The most important thing about being a parent is knowing what your children do, Pierson said.
“Our children are not lost to us forever. If you are a single parent, that is not a bad thing. Single parenting mean that you have people helping you in raising your child,” she said.
The theme for Thursday”s program was “The Art of Parenting.” Tables were decorated with artwork submitted by students from West Lowndes Elementary, New Hope Elementary and Caledonia Elementary.
Parents and students were treated to refreshments which preceded the speech and the presentation of awards to students from each school in recognition of their achievements. Certificates were presented to them after Pierson”s remarks. See Sunday”s Dispatch for a full listing of award winners.
Lowndes County Superintendent of Education Mike Halford said the aim of the district is to make education fun and exciting.
“We want the students to develop the initiative to want to learn and succeed. This program is celebrating the accomplishments of our young people,” he said.
Allen Baswell was previously a reporter for The Dispatch.
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Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 35 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
