ISSUE 17
April 24, 2008

THE BEST OF WCS...
 

Several stories this week spotlight those who make Williamson County Schools the best.  First off, watch as some of the district's brightest students are honored at the 2008 ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE banquet.  Also this week, find out which school volunteers were recently recognized for their hard work at the annual SHINING APPLE awards.  And some local students put their imagination and problem-solving skills to the test by advancing to the DESTINATION IMAGINATION Global Tournament.    

Some of the other stories you'll find in this issue of IN FOCUS include information about a program called CHALLENGE DAY.  Find out how this innovative workshop is helping students at a local high school to look past their differences and find some common ground.  Plus, take a trip behind closed doors and find out what really happens when the Director of Schools meets with the PTO PRESIDENTS twice a year.  And you'll learn how students at a local school were able to raise enough money to provide CLEAN WATER to a village in Africa.

In other news, the cost for a SCHOOL LUNCH is about to go up.  Find out how much it will be starting next year.  Plus, don't forget to take advantage of the SALES TAX HOLIDAY April 25 through 27.  It's your chance to stock up on school supplies and clothes tax free.  Also this week, details surrounding an exciting opportunity for students with a passion for music, art and drama.  The ARTS OF CHARACTER Showcase will give students the chance to perform in front of hundreds of spectators while competing for cash prizes.  And find out what it's like to travel through the Alaskan wilderness on a dog sled as Tennessee's most famous DOG MUSHER visits Chapman's Retreat Elementary School. 

This week you will also want to check out our MUSIC/THEATRE section.  As the end of the school year approaches, there are many performances happening across the county.  Plus, we have a whole slew of new faces featured in the STUDENT SPOTLIGHT section, as well as snapshots from schools across the county in our PHOTO GALLERY.  Please remind folks to SIGN UP for IN FOCUS, and as always feel free to EMAIL US with any comments or questions.