Clinton Middle School showcased its students' achievements, as well as the school's commitment to community service at its local Community Connections Breakfast event on March 20th. The event, held in the school's media room, began with a 7-minute slideshow, highlighting the school's various activities, trips, and events.
Principal Jeff Parks then took center floor, acknowledging the upcoming retirement of Hugh Pace, the school's band director, saying, "I just want to say one thing about Mr. Pace, he is retiring this year, he will be a tremendous loss to our band program, and we will miss him deeply…He is a miracle worker in many ways.”
The audience was then treated to a musical performance by Mr. Pace's 7th and 8th-grade band, who showcased their talents with a selection of songs. The band's energy and enthusiasm were impressive, and their performance was met with applause and appreciation from the audience.
Following the band's performance, the CMS chorus took the stage, adding their voices to the celebration of the school's achievements. Under the direction of their chorus teacher, the students performed heartfelt renditions of popular songs, showcasing their vocal talents and teamwork.
Career Development Facilitator Gabby Bates spoke about an upcoming Career Day event on April 11th, where students will have the opportunity to talk to professionals in various careers. Bates explained that the event will allow students to walk table to table and learn about different career paths and about the skills and education required for each field.
The event also spotlighted the school’s Beta Club, which focuses on community service. Amber Allen, the club’s sponsor, explained, “We help supply the YMCA Food Pantry, Martha Franks, and the Presbyterian Home.” Amber also spoke about how the club is working hard and holding fundraisers in order to attend the National Convention in Orlando, FL.
A panel of students, including Jack Adair, Jazlyn Cook, Messiah Hudgens, Kaylee Lawson, Tatyana Jones, Hayden King, and John Michael Malone, shared their personal stories and experiences as students of Clinton Middle School. They highlighted their passions and interests in sports, music, arts, and community service.
Kaylee Lawson, an 8th-grader and Beta Club member, emphasized the importance of the club, saying, "Beta Club is like service projects, we help the community, and it brings you closer to people..It’s just a really great time all around, and Ms. Allen does a really great job with it.”
John Michael Malone, a 7th-grader, spoke about competing to design a new logo for the middle school, and how his Graphics Design class benefits him. Parks was visibly impressed by Malone's achievement, stating, "His classmates had a design project, they all competed and put them out there, and then we voted on them… Don't be fooled by their age, these kids can do phenomenal things."
He also expressed his pride in the school and its students, saying, "We have a great school, and we have a great group of kids. I wanted our community to see the wonderful things that are happening here.”
Parks concluded the event by encouraging the community to reach out to the Beta Club for volunteer opportunities for the students, and emphasized their mandatory community service hours to remain in the club. As attendees departed, they were treated to a breakfast sponsored by Bojangles, available to take on the go.
The event demonstrated Clinton Middle School's dedication to fostering a supportive community and providing opportunities for its students to grow and succeed. Principal Parks expressed his hope to make the Community Connections Breakfast an annual event, and to keep the community involved.
