by Bill Pitts
As a child in the Depression, I grew up with an intense appreciation for education and the doors that it opens to each of us on a daily basis. As a father and a grandfather of three wonderful grandchildren, I wanted to instill in them this very same value for education.
I have been an active community participant in the educational process for many years. I first became a member of the Harris County Board of Education in 1966 where I served for 15 years. The last five of those years I served as chairman of the board. My first appointment was from Gov. Carl Sanders. In addition to Gov. Sanders, the former President Jimmy Carter appointed me during his tenure as governor of Georgia in 1971. I am indeed proud of my heritage.
I was motivated to become a member of the school board because I wanted to provide educational opportunities for all students. I wanted each child to be able to read, write and grow in a productive setting. Mostly, I wanted this for my child.
The highlight of my tenure on the school board was when a bond issue was passed in 1975, providing for $1 million to be used for improvement of physical facilities used for educational purposes. I knew in my heart that these funds would provide buildings to educate and prepare the children of Harris County for their most promising futures.
My view of parental involvement has changed quite a bit over the years. In years past, parents were more likely to be involved in the education process because typically the mother was a stay-at-home mom who read to her children, taught them basic behavior expectations and allowed the teachers to teach. Today, teachers are expected to be the nurturer, educator and discipline provider because more parents are in the workforce and have limited time with their children.
It is because of this history that I volunteer my time and efforts to the school that my grandchildren attend today. It is important for them to see me giving back to the community and being an example of servant leadership. I feel that each school is made of three very important parts: the teachers, the students and the parents. It is the teachers’ responsibility to instill in children the love of learning because life is a steady learning experience. It is the responsibility of the student to participate in that learning experience by being ready to study, and it is the responsibility of the parent to support this very vital process. This three-legged stool is only as strong as each of the individual legs. If one breaks, the whole stool falls. That is why I am involved, because of my love first for my grandchildren, secondly for all children, and third because of the greater good of the community.
Children are so funny when it comes to their parents or grandparents being involved in school activities. I have seen this in my daughter as well as in my grandchildren. They want their parents to be involved in activities at the school, but at a distance. The first questions my grandchildren ask when they are given an award or recognition is: “Who will be there?” There is much disdain if every member of the family is not present. Yet, when we arrive to participate, they don’t want any hugs, kisses or handholding. I believe this is so typical of children and a real joy to watch. Just because a child says they don’t want you there…be there! Always. They will come to depend on it and expect it!
Bill Pitts currently serves as president of the PTA and volunteers his time and energy weekly at Double Churches Elementary School in Columbus.
