On Friday, Dec. 11, 2015, I witnessed the worst event of vandalism
I've seen in my 30 years in Blount County Schools. It was a sad day for
our school system, particularly the Porter community. However, the
sadness didn’t last long. Porter is an extremely resilient community,
and did a great job rallying from this heinous act of vandalism. The
phrase “many hands make light work” was evident over the weekend, the
Blount County Sheriff’s Office by our side, each step of the way.
Students returned to school on Monday, Dec. 13, 2015, a day
proclaimed as Porter Strong Day. The students and faculty wore their
Porter blue and gold to proudly demonstrate their “Panther Pride.”
Principal Jared Smith assured students their safety was our primary
concern and the intentions of those who committed the senseless acts
were to steal things, not harm people, an important message they needed
to hear.
I have personally been touched by the outpouring of love and
support from the Blount County Community. The acts of concern shown by
so many have truly been inspiring and have positively impacted us all.
Community is defined as “a feeling of fellowship with others, as a
result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals.” It is evident
our community is there for others in a time of need. I will remember
Dec. 11, 2015, as a time our Blount County School system was touched in
magnificent ways.
On behalf of the Blount County Board of Education, Blount County
Schools and Porter Elementary, I simply want to say thank you. I
sincerely appreciate your support and all you do to help us provide
educational excellence for all students.
Sincerely,
Mr. Rob Britt
Director of Blount County Schools
831 Grandview Drive
Maryville, TN 37803 |
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