By: Larry Stover

Many people like to focus on academics when speaking of their school. Martin Middle School continues to improve test scores on a yearly basis. But gaining an education is only a portion of what is learned at this school on a daily basis.

There is a holistic approach by the administration and staff that keeps producing well rounded students. It is an inclusive program that challenges them physically, emotionally and mentally. Students are taught critical thinking and creativity. There is a continual emphasis on values of instruction.

The mission statement of the school promotes the process of developing the character of the students. They are not only taught right from wrong, but they are taught how to put those issues to work in their life and at school on a daily basis.

When I am with the students, I like to stress the role of personal integrity in their lives. Integrity is something we often have but one chance to portray. When anyone loses that trait, it is often very hard if not impossible to ever gain it back.

Honesty and truthfulness are core elements of one’s personal integrity. I have known many people through the years who were dishonest and failed to tell the truth on a regular basis. It is very difficult to trust people who lie repeatedly and are dishonest in business or in relationships.

I’m trying to help our students develop their integrity, so when they become adults, they will become productive citizens and not people of questionable values.

I appreciate so much the leadership of Dr. Queen Morrow, the principal of Martin Middle. She along with her staff are not just teaching our students, they are developing the next generation of leaders for Valley Grande and all of Dallas County.

I have always enjoyed volunteering my time at Martin Middle. This is my fourth year to be involved with our students there. It gets better with every passing day.

The atmosphere at the school is simply great. The staff, teachers, and students seem to get along well. They are continually seen in the halls talking and laughing together.

I want to encourage people in the community to get involved at Martin Middle. Football season has just ended. Basketball is coming soon.

Get out and support your team but more than that, support the youth of Valley Grande.

 

Stover lives in Valley Grande and is pastor at Praise Park Ministries Church of the Nazarene