Congressman John Lewis offers words of inspiration for Deerwood Academy

UPDATE: For a complete photo gallery, click here.

Students at Deerwood Academy were challenged and inspired during Congressman John Lewis’ visit. They were excited to hear about his experiences during the Civil Rights Movement and what it is like to be in congress today. Congressman Lewis talked to third-, fourth-, and fifth-graders in an assembly while kindergarten, first- and second-graders watched him on closed circuit television. But he made it a point to visit all kindergarten, first, and second grade classrooms. Congressman Lewis motivated students as he shared stories of his childhood days in segregated schools. He urged them to stay in school and reminded them that there was no limit to what they could achieve. He went on to say that success takes perseverance and hard work; but, it is worth it.

Students could even relate to the struggles of congress with the Healthcare Reform bill. One student said, “I don’t agree with Gov. Sonny Perdue about trying to have [Georgia Attorney General) Thurbert Baker impeached as result of him not filing a lawsuit against the Healthcare Reform Bill. What do you think we can do about it?” Another asked, “How can we ensure that the Healthcare Reform Bill passes so that everyone can have health insurance to take care of themselves?” Fourth-grader Isis Perkins summed it up best when she said, “I don’t have a question. I have a comment: I want to thank you for helping us get our education that we have today and making it possible. Thank you for helping bring about the voting rights act of 1965. I know my parents can vote and I will some day. Thank you also for making sure that everyone has a chance to have health insurance. I really appreciate it.”

Gideons students honored by the governor

From mock trial and wheelchair basketball victories to visits from Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, the month of March has been filled with high notes for the students of Atlanta Public Schools and Thursday was no different.

On Thursday, Gideons Elementary students (front row) paid a visit to Governor Sonny Perdue’s office to receive special recognition for their art work. Every year the Georgia Department of Agriculture sponsors an art/essay contest for students in grades K-8.  This year’s theme was, “Agriculture: Touching Every Georgia County.” The following Gideons students received special recognition:

• Naomi Yearwood: 1st place recipient of $200
• Jackson Chadwick: 2nd place recipient of $100
• Avery Dixon: 3rd place and recipient of $50
• Nadia Beavers: honorable mention

In the 4th – 8th grade art category:

• Stephanie Willock: 3rd place and the recipient of $50
• Haley Ford and Mahogany Radford: honorable mention

After their visit with the governor and Agriculture Commissioner Tommy Irvin, students and their families received a grand tour of the capitol. Congratulations to these talented students, and thanks to Gideons teacher Darlene Dobbs for sharing the good news. You can read more about how Dobbs is Making a Difference in The Atlanta Educator.

Meet the Atlanta Families’ Awards winners: Dr. Anthony Dorsey

We continue our look at the Atlanta Families’ Awards for Excellence in Education winners with a profile of Dr. Anthony Dorsey, principal at R.N. Fickett Elementary School for the past three years. During his tenure, Fickett has received several awards. In 2008, APS Superintendent Dr. Beverly L. Hall recognized Fickett for achieving 70 percent of the district’s assigned instructional targets. That same year, Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue awarded Fickett the Platinum Award for Greatest Gains, which recognizes students whose achievement ranks in the 98th percentile of greatest gains.  Fickett was named a 2009 “No Excuses School” by the Georgia Public Policy Foundation. In addition, Fickett received a KaBOOM! playground in 2009.

Prior to Fickett, Dr. Dorsey served as a teacher and assistant principal at Ralph J. Bunche Middle, and assistant principal at Cleveland Avenue Elementary.  Before moving to Atlanta, Dr. Dorsey taught in Englewood, N.J., and has been a public school educator for 18 years.