ECS theme 'Tradition of Excellence'

By Bob Robinson
Star Staff
brobinson@starhq.com

   "A Tradition of Excellence" will continue to be the theme of Elizabethton City Schools (ECS) over the next five years, according to Dr. Judy Blevins, director of schools.
   "Academic achievement, parental involvement, school safety, capital improvements and increased staff productivity will remain top priorities," Dr. Blevins said.
   "We are blessed with strong parental support. Parents are an integral part of a successful educational program.
   "Our school board and administrative team are committed to maintaining a quality educational environment for all students," Dr. Blevins added.
   The 2001 ECS Budget totaled $14.6 million, compared to $15.5 million a year earlier. There are 306 employees, with an annual payroll of $8.4 million, serving 2,243 students enrolled in ECS.
   In 2001, Elizabethton City Schools completed capital projects, totaling $1.5 million.
   The projects included two new classrooms at West Side Elementary School (WS); new gymnasium at Harold McCormick Elementary School (HM); new bandroom and elevator at T.A. Dugger Junior High School (TAD); and Early Childhood Center (ECC) for preschool children was opened. A systemwide school nurse position was also approved.
   Capital projects planed for 2002 are additional vocational education classrooms at EHS; converting the former activity room at HM into classrooms; and renovating the EHS pool and dressing rooms.
   School principals are Ed Alexander (EHS), Richard Culver (TAD), Randy Lacy, interim, (East Side), Richard Wilson (WS) and John Hutchins (HM). Kathy Berry is director of the Cyclone Center, for preschool students, and Family Resource Center.
   In addition to Dr. Blevins, other members of the administrative staff are Rondald Taylor, assistant director of schools/director of curriculum; Carol Whaley, director of special education; and Cynthia Roberts, director of finance.
   Members of the Elizabethton School Board are Dr. Jonathan Bremer, chairman; Bob Berry, Dr. Robert Sams, Catherine Armstrong and Judy Richardson.
   Administrative offices are located at 804 S. Watauga Ave., Elizabethton, TN 37643, telephone 423-547-8000. The Web site address is www.ecschools.org.