Guests joined faculty and staff for the dedication of Wilmer Hutchins High School. Seated among them, Ms. Pinkie Mae Gardner, 1939 graduate of Wilmer-Hutchins Colored High School, who actively works and volunteers in support of Dallas ISD students. Several months ago I was pleased to propose naming the High School Plaza in honor of Ms. Pinkie Mae Gardner.
The Naval JROTC, Commanded by MGSgt.Willie Nimer and the Chorale Ensemble, directed by Beverly Chinn respectively performed the presentation of colors and a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem.
The program included memorable remarks from students Kenneth Searl and Juan Octavia, who will be among the 2012 graduates in the first class for this new Dallas ISD campus. We were touched by their sincere responses to the Challenge to Students.
Presenting the challenge, Devin Richardson, a 1984 graduate of the former Wilmer-Hutchins School District, encouraged students and asked them to, "Build on the positive values of the past."
Board President Lew Blackburn provided welcoming remarks. Other program participants included: Senator Royce West, Dallas Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Tennell Atkins, Hutchins Mayor Artis Johnson, Wilmer Mayor A. Hector Casarez and PepsiCo Director Rachel Thomas.
Dorothy Gomez, Interim Division Executive, Secondary Schools and David Patton, Director, Design and Special Projects also addressed the audience.
Thanks to Principal Marlon Brooks and the entire Wilmer Hutchins High School staff for your show of dedication and enthusiasm.
The former Wilmer-Hutchins High School facility was a part of District 6 for the past 5 years, I was pleased to attend the dedication ceremony and hope the Eagles will fly high in 2011-2012.
