HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE -- Administrators from the Jessieville School District spoke to the Hot Springs Village Rotary Club during a recent meeting, giving an update on programs and possible ways to help the students.
Superintendent Ralph Carter and Michael Holdeness, the music teacher and after-school program site coordinator, were introduced by Rotarian Susan Clark, director of the Cedar Mountain Boys & Girls Club, which is one of the program's partners.
Following Carter's general overview, Holdeness discussed the after-school program, called the 21st Century Initiative. According to a news release, he noted that students who participate show higher test scores and literacy rates than students who don't.
Holdeness touched on his other roles, as music teacher and band director, and suggested that Villagers who might have old musical instruments in their attics donate them to the school band.
In addition, Villagers who have skills in such subjects as woodworking, Taekwondo or gardening are also needed as volunteers for the after-school programs.
He also encouraged HSV residents to become what he called an "antidote to the news, which can often be depressing." He said that along with bolstering young people by tutoring, helping with homework, or practicing music, Villagers can also be mentors and role models simply by demonstrating good morals and positive values.
Both Carter and Holdeness said Jessieville is a great place to be, with Carter adding, "Jessieville schools have good kids, good teachers, good staff and a positive outlook."
Membership in HSV Rotary Club is open to all, and guests are always welcome to attend weekly meetings, held at 7 a.m. Thursdays in the Fireside Dining Room of the Good Samaritan Society, 121 Cortez Road.
Local on 09/30/2016