When I first walked in, one of the custodians said, "Doggone it!" I looked at him and asked, "Uh, what's the problem?"  He responded, "That door was supposed to be locked because we're trying to encourage all parents to use the front door. So I have to go back and make sure it's secure."

 

 

He said, "But how do you like how the place looks, Dr. Jones?" I looked around. The floors were highly polished, the building was clean, it looked great - and I told him that. I saw pride in his eyes, and I heard pride in his voice when he said, "Yeah, this is a good looking place, and we're going to keep it that way!"

 

 

Then I noticed the school's resource officer who was in the center of the hallway where he could monitor what was going on. During a class change he was among the students. He was part of the staff, and it was efficient operation that just screamed, "We are reliable. You can trust us with your children."

 

 

I went in a classroom to see what was going on. Turned out it was a science classroom and a former high school teacher of the year, Valeria Gladney, was the teacher. Her blackboard configuration was up-to-date, being implemented perfectly. The students were listening as she provided instructions and then it struck me... the students were all dressed the same.

 

 

Quietly, without any controversy, TSAC students adopted a uniform, and they all were in compliance. I then went to the main office where I saw the principal, Mrs. Janet Ware, managing and running the office as her secretary was out on school errands.

 

 

I share all of this with you simply to say, "We have a place we can be proud of."

TSAC is up, operational, and doing great things for some of our system's most at-risk students. In fact, I would say that TSAC is almost as impressive as our Elementary Enrichment Center. So, if you get a chance, go by and check out TSAC. It's a place of pride!

 

And TSAC - don't get a big head - 'cause I dare you to do better!