PERFECTLY NAMED
T here’s a reason the book All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten spent weeks at #1 on the New York Times Best Sell- ers list—the impact of the lessons learned at that young age are vital, lasting, and shape our lives into adulthood. MRA is so fortunate that, for twenty-five years, the person steering the wheel at MRA’s pre- school and kindergarten (and therefore, guiding and impacting the lives of countless children and their families) is Sandy Rawlings. In fact, in honor of her years of service to the school and the great differ- ence she has made in the lives of our students, the MRA Kindergarten has been named Rawlings Hall—an honor that was made official at a ribbon-cutting and dedication service this past fall. We asked Sandy Rawlings some questions about her time in education and her years at MRA. In these answers, I think you will see some of the many reasons Rawlings Hall is deservedly and appropriately named! What motivated you to choose education? I was born to be a teacher! My grandmother, Maggie McArthur, taught in a one room schoolhouse in Mashulaville, MS. My sister and my brother were both teachers. I have been an advocate for ear- ly childhood education most of my life. The early years are the most important in the development of a child. I know the preschool-kin- dergarten years are the gateway to education. There is no truer quote than,“ The first 5 years of a child’s life determines how the next 80 will turn out.” Making a difference is my daily motivation. What has been your proudest accomplishment in education? My proudest accomplishment in education is the difference I hope I have made in the young lives of my babies throughout my years. Many children have passed
so very proud of the hard work and dedication of the faculty mem- bers that continue to be lifelong learners. We are one of the top Early Childhood programs in the state. Providing an excellent education and planting seeds of faith is a prayer answered. What does MRA mean to your family? When our family moved to Madison, we found our home-away- from-home at MRA. My children grew up on this campus. A Christian education was very important to us, and Jeff and I were involved from the beginning. Jeff volunteered to coach just about every sport for Kelly, Alec, and Sean. For many years, I was room mom, assistant room mom, navigator, coordinator, dance team coach, and I loved spending time with our children’s friends. Our farm was the setting for many homecoming pep rally bonfires. For our last son’s senior year, our home was used for the coaches to teach Leadership 101. I think back to all the wonderful Christian role models all three of our children had in their lives during their time at MRA. Priceless! All this to say I encourage my kindergar- ten parents to be involved and plug in. Volunteering and modeling a servant heart for children is so important. Mr. Thompson, for- mer head of school, said it best: Little Eyes Are Watching. Kelly Edwards, my daughter, is a teacher in the elementary. Sometimes life comes full circle. Jeff and I now attend all the events at MRA for our three granddaughters. We are now in the stands waving and cheering with the cheerleaders. It brings me such joy. What does having your name on this building mean to you?
I just tear up thinking about this. When Mr. Land shared the rendering with my name on the build- ing, I was speechless. It is such an incredible honor to my family and me. When my chil- dren, grandchildren, MRA parents and stu- dents see “Rawlings Hall” on the building, I want them to think of the good memories. My prayer is that I have and will continue to bring out the best in our children at MRA.
through these doors, and they often come back to give me a hug. It makes me proud to hear how much they loved their kindergarten years. And none of it would have been pos- sible without the commitment and support of Mr. Thompson, Mr. Land, and our board members, past and present. They trusted me and supported me every step of the way. I am
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