November 26 will mark the thirty-fourth celebration of Grandparents' Day at Sullins Academy.  This very special occasion was started in 1979 by then Headmaster B. C. Rauchle.  He explained his intent this way:  "I want our students to be aware of the blessings that they have because they are members of a loving and caring family unit that includes not only parents, but grandparents as well."   On that first occasion, more than 200 guests attended an assembly that included a program of songs, classroom visits, and a Thanksgiving feast.  Some grandparents were unable to participate, so students were permitted to invite "grand - friends," in the form of uncles, aunts, babysitters, and neighbors. 

Over time, a few aspects of Grandparents' Day have changed, but the purpose remains the same - to honor our grandparents or their substitutes and give them an opportunity to witness the educational benefits their grandchildren are receiving from Sullins Academy. 

Five years ago, a second day of celebration was added so that grandparents could spend more time with their grandchildren, prior to the musical program and early dismissal on Grandparents' Day.  With the help of the Hospitality Committee of the Sullins Parents Association, a breakfast is now held on the Monday before the big day.  After the morning meal, guests are invited to spend time in the classrooms, accompany their loved ones to the Book Fair, and in the case of Preschool and Kindergarten classes, enjoy a Thanksgiving Feast at lunch.

Over the years, faculty members have been creative in planning special gifts and activities for grandparents during their visit to Sullins.  In 1982, for example, the fifth and sixth grade students were asked to compare their grandparents with a fruit, vegetable or dessert as part of a writing assignment in language arts.  Some notable responses were:  "My grandmother is like sweet potatoes because she's very sweet and squishy;" and "My grandfather is like an eggplant because he is slick, smooth and doesn't have much hair."

Everyone at Sullins is looking forward to continuing the Grandparents' Day traditions on Monday, November 25 and Tuesday, November 26.  If your family members have not yet notified us of plans to attend, please remind them to do so by November 20.

If any guests require handicap access or special assistance, please let Ms. Justis know by November 20.  The easiest entry into the gym, where Monday and Tuesday events will take place, is at the back door near the cafeteria.  (Call 276-669-4101 or email mmjustis@sullinsacademy.org)

BIG Plans For The Year Ahead  

Hopefully, you received an email invitation a few days ago to spend an evening with Ricky Skaggs, on December 4, at the home of Mr. and Mrs. J. Allen Hurley.  The Sullins Parents Association has been given a remarkable opportunity to receive the proceeds from this private performance by music legend, Ricky Skaggs, thanks to his friendship with the Hurley family .   Only forty (40) seats are available for this event, and Sullins families have priority in reserving those tickets until November 25.  After that date, individuals in the community will be given a chance to participate if any seats are unsold.  So, if you are interested in attending, please reserve your spot by emailing  mmjustis@sullinsacademy.org or call Ms. Justis at (276) 669 - 4101.  

Thank you for all of your support and for making Sullins Academy a great school.