Betty Gilbert: 'Give 100% and you will succeed'
Email
Print
Letter to Editor
Share
Updated: November 04, 2009 1:47 PM
Not many schools get to celebrate two official openings. However, Betty Gilbert celebrated its transformation from an elementary school to a middle school Oct. 27 with music, a play, school tours and cake.
"This is truly a day to celebrate," Principal Tim Everson said in his opening comments to an assembly to mark the work, dedication and foresight that has gone into Betty Gilbert's transition.
"It has taken a huge amount of planning, and finally we're here."
Front and centre in the assembly were students. The band and choir entertained the audience. In addition, teacher Christie Friesen introduced a student performance called Pattie's Parents Worried, which evoked some of the concerns the community had as the Middle School was launched and how those concerns were addressed.
"In this play we will talk about some of our parents' worries and how they were appeased in getting this school ready," she said.
The play detailed many of the hopes and fears that had to be recognized one step at a time as the school community went through its process of change.
Superintendent of Schools Cheryle Beaumont brought greetings from far and wide.
"All of the other schools in our school district are sending their congratulations," she said, noting that parents and the Aldergrove community deserve praise for the way they have worked through the reconfiguration process. She also praised Betty Gilbert Principal Tim Everson for his leadership.
Chair of the Board of Education Joan Bech reminded the audience of an old saying: "If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together."
Betty Gilbert's community has exemplified that, she said, predicting continued support for the school. "Long term community support is a key factor in the success of our schools," she noted.
Jim Gilbert, whose late wife Betty the school is named after, said the dedication of teachers and students is what makes a school work. Referring to teachers past and present in Aldergrove he said, "They all gave 100 per cent to learning at their schools. Give 100 per cent and you will succeed."
v2
