The saying is true, “Once a Spartan, Always a Spartan.” Little did I know that once I walked across the stage in 2001, with plans of moving off to college and not looking back, that I would be back home 23 years later, leading as school board president at the district that raised me and molded me into the person I am today.
The Spartan Pride started early, growing up in a family full of Spartan alums. My mom is a graduate and taught for 36 years in the district. My dad is a former school board member and Hall of Fame inductee. I attended Lima City Schools from kindergarten on. I was a Warrior (Westwood), a Titan (West) and of course a Spartan (Lima Senior). I made memories, built connections and gained skills that will last a lifetime.
When we moved back to Lima about nine years ago, there was nowhere else we wanted to send our children. All of the opportunities in the classroom and beyond, the diversity that walks the halls, I could go on and on. The halls of our schools are special. Students from all walks of life come together as one — together as Spartans.
Each of our children is different. Different interests, different successes, different struggles. But one thing is for sure, all of their needs were met through the opportunities and resources the Lima City School District provides.
Caring teachers, staff and coaches? Check.
Academic interventions? Check.
Taking a trip to Orlando to play lacrosse? Check.
Individualized, high-level instruction? Check.
International marketing competitions? Check.
Family education and support? Check.
Dancing on the stage with an internationally recognized dance educator? Check.
You name it, our students and families in the district have probably experienced it or have access to it.
Along with your typical college prep classes, we offer a variety of areas that meet the interests of our students. We have the arts, science and technology, career tech, college credit, athletic opportunities and various student clubs. Whatever you are looking for, you can find it right here in the Lima City Schools.
In 2019, I was appointed to the Lima City Schools Board of Education. I wanted to give back to the school and city that supported me most of my life. I’ve had the opportunity to represent our district on the state level, serving on the Ohio School Boards Association’s Executive Committee, Diversity and Equity Committee and the Black Caucus.
I have been able to work with colleagues who believe in the importance of public education, making sure there is fair access and funding to education for all students in this state. I have been able to share the success of our district and the growth we have made over the years. I have been able to brag about our students and the programs and outreach we provide to the community.
And speaking of community, the support we receive from people all over the community and local businesses that believe in what the district has to offer and the ability of our students is something that soothes the soul. I see people from all over the city coming together to support and lift up our students.
The buildings and people may have changed, but the saying is still true: I am proud to be a product of public education, and I am proud to be a Spartan.
I hope our community will join me as we “Celebrate Public Schools and Experience the Spartan Pride” at our district-wide open house from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 26, at Lima Senior. From student performances and artwork to student projects and clubs, and a free meal by our culinary students, this is a wonderful way to experience all the Lima City Schools has to offer.
Deanna Reynolds-Griffin is president of the Lima school board. Her column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Lima News editorial board or AIM Media, owner of The Lima News.
