“The school is most definitely the centerpiece of
this community,” Grassy Fork teacher Mark Tocholke said. “All activities revolve around the school
itself.”
Principal Judy Webb maintains an “open-door
policy,” meaning that any community member can
come in anytime for a cup of coffee or a fast Internet connection. With low connectivity levels in the
mountains – most Grassy Fork students don’t have
computers at home – this is an important service.
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original stories aloud in the school’s outdoor
classroom. The Family Craft Night in December,
a “Bingo for Books” community supper in March,
and a bluegrass festival in the spring are just a
few other events on the calendar. The events are
well attended by school families and community
members alike, according to Grassy Fork parent
Jennifer Baxter.
“You won’t be able to find a parking spot,” Ms.
Baxter said.
“Anybody can come in here and research what
kind of medicine Grandma needs to take, how
to get to Myrtle Beach on MapQuest,” said Dr.
Webb. “It’s a hub of communication. Parents do
feel welcome here – very welcome here.”
This culture translates into valuable community
support for the school and students, meeting material needs of the school and its kids while making
a meaningful statement that academic work is
supported.
Special events bring families to the school throughout the year, providing monthly opportunities to
celebrate what kids are learning. A school picnic
in August introduces parents to kids’ teachers and
gets the year off to a good start with a 100foot, soap-covered tarp for sliding. In October,
at Spooky Story Night, students write and read
Fundraisers including the bluegrass festival and a
community Thanksgiving dinner raise thousands of
dollars, used to meet needs ranging from technology to textbooks to basketball uniforms. Financial
support also allows students to take annual trips to
destinations like Nashville and Washington, D.C.
Grassy Fork’s outdoor classroom was constructed