Reflecting on the Sapp Hall of Fame Ceremony



The legends of Sapp Elementary, with Principal Wilson (centered in black and silver).



Happy Friday, Everybody!

Well, like I promised y’all yesterday, I’ve got a greaten for today—just go ahead and check it out!

Even though we are twenty-four days into this new year, I must reflect on Saturday evening, December 21, 2013. It was on that aforementioned night that Sapp Elementary had their Hall of Fame ceremony, thus honoring five great legendary teachers who made their mark in the lives and hearts of every Sappster. What made this night so special for my family was that my Uncle Anthony was chosen and volunteered to accept an award on behalf of my Grampa Clark. And I must also make mention of Grampa Clark’s colleagues: Mrs. Betty Bradley, who taught Second Graders for fourteen years; Mr. Mike Thundera, who taught Eighth Graders for twenty-three years; Mrs. Cynthia Harvey, who taught First Graders for twenty-seven years; and Mr. Hal Arthur, who taught Third Graders for thirty-six years.

What I loved the most about this ceremony was that Mr. Arthur, Mrs. Harvey, Mr. Thundera, and Mrs. Bradley acknowledged my Grampa Clark in their appreciation speeches—and why not? I mean, after all, he was their colleague… or as they all said it, he was their big brother. I also liked how each legend mentioned the children; as a matter of fact, it was Mr. Arthur who said it best: “A real teacher gives a damn about the kids, regardless of whatever!”

Oh, and I should also point out that the Sapp Elementary Family saved Grampa Clark for last. As a matter of fact, when Mr. D got up to induct Grampa Clark, everyone in the Promenade Room at Marina Del Rey Marriott began to cheer. Finally, Uncle Anthony stood up and accepted the Hall of Fame Award, and in doing so, gave such a heartfelt speech that it felt like Grampa Clark was sitting right in that room with us all.

Uncle Anthony talked about the sacrifices and the dedication that it takes to being a loyal teacher—after all, he himself teaches Eighth Graders at Robert L. Johnson Elementary. Well, anyway, Uncle Anthony talked about how Grampa Clark would come home virtually every day with stories about a “fresh-faced youngster who made his day that much sweeter.” Finally, after accepting the Hall of Fame award, Uncle Anthony concluded his speech by holding up the award and declaring a la Grampa Clark: “You betta know that’s right!”

Suffice to say, it was a very beautiful ceremony, and I am glad that I was able to witness it. And I already know that Cousin Lionel, Cousin Calvin, and Cousin Matthew were all extra thrilled to meet singer Tiffany Summers! But anyway, the Sapp Hall of Fame ceremony is yet more proof that I have a whole lot to look forward to when I become a teacher.

Until tomorrow, y’all take care.

Hugs & Kisses,

Natasha