Walking the Halls
By BETTY POWERS Parnell Principal

How many times have you heard someone say, “My, how time flies”?

That has been the very thought that keeps coming to me. It is hard to believe that the Thanksgiving holidays have come and gone. It was good to get back to school and listen to the children share stories about how they spent the holidays.

Now there is an excitement in the air in anticipation of the Christmas holidays. I spent many years on a secondary campus. How interesting it has been to be on an elementary campus and watch the excitement and anticipation of our students. They have such a zest and infectious enthusiasm about life! I must admit that they keep me excited about what is happening.

Our calendar at Parnell has been “full.” After the Thanksgiving holidays, we began after-school math tutorials in preparation for the upcoming math TAKS tests given in the spring semester. Monday, Dec. 4 and Thursday, Dec. 7, our students traveled to Kirbyville to participate in UIL academic contests. Our students and their coaches worked very hard in preparation for the literary events.

Our third grade classes presented their Christmas music program Tuesday night, Dec. 5. The students and Mrs.

Parma, our Parnell music teacher, worked diligently to prepare for this program. Mrs. Parma will also be accompanying our 4th grade “Sing and Sign” choir on a caroling trip around town to entertain folks in the nursing homes and at some of the local businesses and banks.

I know that this is a very busy time of year for everyone, not just the folks at Parnell Elementary. However, during this busy time of year, I hope each of you can find time to enjoy and reflect on the holiday season.

From the staff and students of Parnell Elementary, “May you have a very blessed Christmas and a happy New Year!”