Just the other day I realized that it was about fifty years ago that I was finishing up my degree at Mississippi State University. I had accepted a job in Lafayette, Georgia teaching fourth grade at Armuchee Valley Elementary School.
The school had grades 1-8, one class for each grade.
There were no special classes like music, art, or physical education.
It was a great place for a twenty year old to start her teaching career.
The photos that follow are blurry from a point and shoot camera circa 1972.
I know the second girl from the left below is Gwen.
Below the older students are playing the faculty in volleyball.
I am in dark blue and have my hands on my waist.
Vicky Crews is in the red shirt.
This is Gleen Gilbreath with his goat at his family's farm in the valley.
He had a great smile and a lovely mother.
My green Plymouth Duster - brand new - no air conditioner.
I am petting either a McKnight's or Neal's hound dog.
Not sure where this was taken, maybe Cloudland Canyon.
Those fourth graders will be turning 60 soon.
I hope they have good memories of their very young and inexperienced teacher.
I have good memories of them.
