Since moving to Tyrone three years ago, there has been a constant undertone about Burch Elementary school and the children who attend. I’ve listened to endless chatter of stay-at-home moms about all of the activities at their respective schools. When invited to participate, I am soon asked, “What school do your children attend?” When I answer, “Burch”, I receive the quiet, “Oh, I see” look. Almost a “your poor children” kind of look.

I never understood that look. Since our first day at Burch, I recognized the unique place that it is. Burch is truly a reflection of the world we live in, not the fairy tale that we like to believe exists.

The teachers at Burch are some of the most talented educators that I have ever experienced. At Burch, there are children from every socioeconomic level and children from varying racial backgrounds. When attending an assembly for the first time, I thought I was at the United Nations.

Burch was not always as culturally diverse as it is now. Burch has seen many changes, and change is very hard to accept. With poverty comes challenges, and with cultural difference comes a need for understanding. Burch is at a pivotal point and it can excel to be the best in the county, or it can sink to the bottom.

The Fayette County Board of Education sees the potential of the school and the special place that it is. The FCBOE listened to many concerns/suggestions and made moves which could potentially make Burch a leader in the county for linking success with diversity.

The leadership has been changed to reflect and embrace the differences that make Burch such a special place. The leaders of the school set the tone and the new leadership has already raised the bar of excellence in the mere appearance of the school.

There is much excitement in the air from teachers, parents, and most of all students. Everyone is on board to make 2008/2009 a year to remember, and everyone knows that together we can all make Burch a school that others can model for its exemplary standards and performance.

Sometimes a fresh start is all that is needed, and Burch is going to have that opportunity as this new school year approaches.

Alicia Booker

aliciabooker@bellsouth.net