|
|
OPINION
Our congratulations to the All-America City’s own Fountain-Fort Carson School District 8 Superintendent Dwight Jones who is the only finalist for the top “educational/administrative” position in the state of Colorado - Commissioner of Education. Anytime we expect the official announcement that he will be appointed. I first got to know Dwight during the application process when the City of Fountain was seeking the honor of being a 2002 All-America City. In the beginning, a core group met and discussed what should be included in the 20+ page application, and I remember how dedicated Dwight was to highlight all the achievements District Eight had made and enjoyed- especially those involving the children. He was also first to credit the youth, the teachers-- everyone but himself. Then when we learned we were a finalist, Dwight joined the delegation of about 40 of us, who rehearsed our 10-minute time limited presentation a few times here, first, and then traveled to the competition held in Kansas City that year. A former Kansan himself, Dwight was able to include his two eldest children in some of our activities- and it was clear to see that not only was this inspirational leader a “super” District 8 official (he wasn’t yet serving as Superintendent at the time), he was also a very dedicated, caring and “rightly” proud father, too. Not only was Dwight a valuable member of the delegation, he instantly surfaced as a leader in the group that included folks of all ages, all walks of life. Of course, we were all jubilant upon hearing the news we had won! What a thrill that was- and still is. Those of us who were involved in the project became a networked “All-America City family” of sorts, so of course we were overjoyed when Dwight was named District Eight’s superintendent. And now, this newest announcement leaves us bittersweet. While we couldn’t be more thrilled for Dwight or prouder of this incredible opportunity for which Dwight is most qualified and capable of taking on; we can’t help but to be sad for School District Eight. I can’t imagine who will fill the legend-like shoes he has created in really, just a few short years here. Yes indeed, our community is most fortunate and blessed to have had Dwight here, working among us, leading by example. He will be sorely missed here, although we hope and trust that his efforts in this new position will be of benefit to us all - as well the rest of the state! Surely, we should celebrate this great news as not only the obvious thrilling news for Dwight Jones, but also it is great news for the local community and School District Eight. And, Dwight, your All-America City ‘family,” (myself included), couldn’t be more proud, too! Way to go, buddy, way to go! CONTACT THE WRITER • PATRICIA@FTNVALLEYNEWS.COM |
