Photos by Rome City Schools
The month of January is Mentor Appreciation Month. This month, people take the time to appreciate all of the help they have received from very special people along the way. A great way to honor those who guide the young students at Rome City Schools’ Phoenix Learning Center (PLC) is to treat them to a hot and tasty breakfast.
Jennifer Perkins, Principal at the Phoenix Learning Center, did just that as she hosted members of the community for the PLC Appreciation Breakfast.
Serving fresh scones, muffins, a breakfast casserole, fruit and more, members of the community and Rome City Schools staff members helped themselves to a delicious meal before taking the time to speak with the students at PLC.
After the breakfast, the meeting moved into the cafeteria where Perkins readied students for a recognition service.
Perkins first recognized the staff at PLC, along with the Rome Transitional Academy (RTA) staff and Central Office staff. She then acknowledged the mentors who take time out of their schedules to come to the school and inspire young students to fulfill their potential.
Former PLC student Fray DeLeon spoke to the crowd of current students and mentors about the importance of taking advantage of the opportunities offered at PLC. He also encouraged the students to lean on their mentors, and to ask as many questions as they could think of.
Perkins then asked a representative of each organization to speak to the students and attendees.
From the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Elaina Beeman, spoke to the students about the importance of sisterhood and helping, no matter the deed. Greg Wooten, Executive Director of Communities in Schools (CIS) also spoke to the students, along with members of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and members from the 100 Black Men of Northwest Georgia.
“We are so thankful to have so many people willing to come in and serve as mentors here at the PLC,” said Perkins. “I think we (PLC) are very blessed to have such amazing community support from local organizations, and mentors who truly take the time to come in and share their life experiences with the students. It means a lot to them, and we are just so thankful.”
