Schools That Shaped Me

This past Thanksgiving I got together with some old, high school friends while we were in Longview. It was through our conversation that I learned that our middle school was going through some major renovations and our elementary school would be completely demolished since they opened the new elementary school, Johnston-McQueen. My heart sank and I was sad to find out this news--silly, I know. So, on our way back to McKinney I told Shawn that when we travelled back to Longview over the Christmas break; I would definitely need to take pictures of these two, precious places full of priceless memories. Allow me to take you on a tour:

This is the new elementary school, Johnston-McQueen. When I entered 3rd grade, we found out that Mozelle Johnston Elementary would house 3rd-5th grade, while Doris McQueen Primary would house K-2nd. Now, with new plans, they're combining again after a little over two decades.

Here's the first sign I'd see everyday in the parent-drop off line when mom or dad took me to school.

This was the little, courtyard area. Kinder, 1st, and 2nd grade windows all faced this little area. The classrooms opened up to the outside, rather than a hallway.

Kindergarten, Mrs. Goza

1st grade (yes, in a portable), Mrs. Lowe

2nd grade, Mrs. Layman

3rd grade, Mrs. Jones

4th grade, Mrs. Arneau

(Above): 4th and 5th grade bathrooms Below: The same exact water fountains

5th grade, Mrs. Webster

(Above): The music room with Mr. Martin (Below): The P.E. Portable--we spent a lot of time on the blacktops and playground, too (see next few pictures).

I loved lunch time for sure!

Mr. Gregory, one of our principals, would always take us on the nature trail. He was so passionate about God's creation. He could tell you a plethora of information on every plant and tree on the trail. He was truly our on-campus, botanist.

There's a story about this little, log school house. I grew up and went to school with a girl named Christi Satterwhite. Her dad's company, Satterwhite Log Homes, built this school house when we were in the 3rd grade. Each year, we would have a school-wide, Pioneer Day. The house has old, slate chalkboards, academic books from years ago, wooden desks, etc. When I walked in I truly felt like Laura Ingalls. I actually dressed up as her on Book Character Day in the 3rd grade. During Pioneer Day we would make candle sticks, play old-fashioned games, etc. We always looked forward to Pioneer Day and was neat to know that they always carried on the same tradition. Maybe they'll bus the kids over from the new school--FIELD TRIP!

Now it's time to fast forward to middle school, the one and only, Judson Middle School. As I drove up I saw that the football field and the gym were both being worked on. I wanted to take more pictures, but the Holy Spirit told me to get in the SUV. I'm so thankful I did because a man had just pulled up in the parking lot and started talking/walking towards me. I quickly made it into the vehicle, said Merry Christmas, and was on my way. SUPER CREEPY!

The whole purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows. ~Sydney J. Harris