Parent Teacher Magazine Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools November 2013 | Page 5
A big tree, buckets and owls
CMS dedicates Grand Oak Elementary on Sept. 24
When you enter Grand Oak
Elementary, there are always eyes
on you. Owls are the school’s
mascot and are everywhere in
the school. There are ceramic
owls, books about owls and some
students have owl hair accessories.
The owls have helped to create
school pride and a sense of family.
Grand Oak Elementary was
built with funds from the 2007
bonds. The 39-classroom building
relieved overcrowding at Torrence
Creek Elementary.
Students, staff, parents and
Huntersville community members
celebrated the opening of CMS’
newest school at a celebration on
Sept. 24.
The school’s dedication
program included remarks
from Principal Ray Giovanelli,
Superintendent Heath Morrison,
Board Member Rhonda Lennon
and Learning Community
Superintendent
Dr. Dawn
Robinson.
“You are
the first. This
is your legacy,” said Lennon to
fifth-graders who attended the
program. “I want to challenge you
to set the bar high.”
The program also featured a
video of first- and second-graders
who talked about filling buckets.
The bucket concepts is used to
teach students about sharing,
respect, honesty and feelings.
“I am proud to be the principal
of Grand Oak Elementary,” said
Ray Giovanelli. “I appreciate all of
the support for our students and
staff and we will work hard to be a
successful school.”
The fifth-graders recited
a school pledge and released
balloons to honor their school.
Parent Teacher Magazine •November/December 2013• 3