BANNER GUARDS — Sixth, seventh and eighth grade class officers at Piney Creek Elementary display the school's "School of Excellence" banner. Principal Phil Howell (at far right) called them the "guardians of this banner" during a ceremony at the school last week.

Piney Creek celebrates its 'mark of excellence'

"With great students, faculty and staff, we can do anything," said Hannah Leinbach, president of the student council at Piney Creek Elementary School. Leinbach's remarks were part of a Feb. 14 ceremony in which representatives of the N.C. Board of Education awarded the school its second consecutive "School of Excellence" award.

Parents, grandparents and other relatives, county and school officials joined the Piney Creek School's staff and pupils for the celebration in the school's gymnasium.

Alleghany Schools Superintendent Duane Davis told the gathering, "Every student, volunteer — everyone that has anything to do with Piney Creek School is involved in a special happening.

"You've had great success through tremendous work — hard work — but you've been given the tools for that success by the citizens of Alleghany County and the state."

"Hard work pays off, and it is important," said Betsy West, assistant director of the state board. "You are in the process of becoming what you're going to be. Adulthood is only a few years away.

"The world is changing at a tremendous pace. With hard work in the school and the home, there isn't anything you cannot achieve."

Jane Worsham, executive director of the state board, was scheduled to attend the ceremony. She had a family health emergency, however, and was replaced by West.

Carmen Wilson, the state's 2001 teacher of the year and an advisor to the state board, outlined some lessons to remember: "Whatever you do, whatever you seek in life, always pursue excellence," she said.

"When you do succeed, always remember to thank the people who have helped you.

"Teachers, you don't just teach the lesson, you don't just teach the curriculum, you teach the children. Sometimes you don't realize the impact you have on those children....The students are thankful for what you do. You are truly making the world a better place."

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