Next to the quest for peace, our nation's most important goal is the development of a high-quality educational enterprise that will prepare all youngsters for life in a fast-changing and complex world.

With this thought in mind, the philosophy and the attitude of district officials become rather important. I was reminded of this during a recent visit to a thriving business establishment.

While waiting in line, I noticed an interesting philosophy posted on a wall. It was especially stimulating because the employees obviously subscribed to the message. I believe the philosophy is as appropriate to schools as it is to businesses, and I have chosen to substitute the word student for customer and school for business.

A student is the most important person in any school.

A student is not an interruption of our work—he or she is the purpose of it.

A student is not just a statistic. He or she is a flesh-and-blood human being with feelings and emotions like ourselves.

A student is one who comes to us with needs and/or wants. It is our job to fill them.

A student is deserving of the most courteous and attentive treatment that we can provide.

A student is the lifeblood of this and every other school. Without him or her, we would have to close our doors.

The focus of the future should be on service and excellence. We are pleased, as employees of the Cobb County School District/Cheatham Hill Elementary, to have the opportunity to serve and work with your children. The importance of teaching and learning cannot be overstated. It is our privilege and our challenge as educators to strive continually to provide quality education in our classrooms.

Sincerely,

Belinda Walters-Brazile, Principal