Almost all of the people with whom I have contact are my age meaning old and many are residents of facilities for those who are for those both old and bothered by infirmities. But there was a time eons ago when I myself was part of the youthful era which came to mind vividly recently when I was invited to take part in a presentation at the Dillon Christian School.
First, orderliness greeted me even before I parked the car and entered the school.. When I entered Commerce Drive, I noticed a Highway Department sign signifying that this stretch of road was monitored by the DCS Student Council, an indication of what was seen on the school campus later.
Leaving my car in the parking lot, I noticed that there was no liter to be seen anywhere. Upon entering the building I was greeted by several attractive school related bulletin boards and a hallway silent and empty of students. No graffiti was seen. One classroom door was open where orderly students were busy carrying on a class discussion. The scene did not remind me of some other situations I have witnessed both as a teacher and school visitor. A sign directed me to the main office where I was politely greeted and escorted to my destination.
The wide sidewalks led to the assembly point, another well maintained and functional arena used as a gymnasium and auditorium. The school stresses its Christian heritage and appropriate signs proclaimed its message. Since the school is private, the building displayed sections whose advertisers whose business signs showed local support. Greeting visitors were trophies representing athletic achievements and at one end, a large banner proclaiming STATE CHAMPIONS. The customed made basketball court was an attractive focal point surrounded by several spectator seating areas. There was no evidence of stray clutter to be seen, obvious in some athletic facilities.
Most impressive was the entrance by the students, boys and girls who entered the gym animated but orderly. I was impressed by their dress, stylish but not out of bounds or questionable for a school environment.
Once seated, the Head of School called for the attention of the student body which quickly responded to her request and her thank you was then followed by a prayer by a staff member, received respectfully. The purpose of the first order of business was announced and carried out appropriately. There was no apparent distraction during the time I was present. The gathering was held in a textbook manner showing respect and discipline.
This gathering was no ‘show’ time event. To me, it was normal and unrehearsed evidently typical of any other assembly even without visitors.
We later gathered near the outdoor chapel for a photo session, well organized and expertly performed.
Evidently the students are proud of their school and it shows. The proof is everywhere.
Train up a child …
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Bill Lee, PO Box 128,
Hamer, SC 29547
