Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, June 3, 1993 TAG: 9306030376
SECTION: NEIGHBORS PAGE: S-9 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: L. JOY BOWLING, KELLY ORR and JENNIFER FERRELL
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
These students came to Fleming as ninth-graders, and after four years are prepared to enter the world awaiting them, whether it be college, the military or the work force. The students are eagerly awaiting graduation, but all realize it will be a day of mixed emotions.
George Miller, principal of Coulter Hall, home of the seniors, has mixed emotions as well.
"Each senior is like a kite to me, flying high, in all directions. As the holder of the string, I never cut any of them loose. Now that it's time to go, I'll reel them in and we'll depart as one big unified family," said Miller.
A feeling of unity is evident among the members of the class. "We are all different, but when we come together, we generate a feeling of pride for our school," said Tellas Minor, class president.
Their unity and pride has been expressed by their support of extra-curricular activities. It is hard to find a sport or club where seniors are not actively involved.
From accomplishments of individuals to the success of sports teams, the senior Fleming class has lived up to its theme "Go for the Gold."
A number of the 325 seniors have received scholarships from local and state programs and organizations.
Although graduates have studied calculus, Shakespeare and biology, perhaps the most important lesson has been, "learning to get along with a diverse group of people," said Rebekah Turner, valedictorian.
Turner, who has a 4.0444 grade point average, has made the most of her four years at Fleming. She has been a member of the National Beta Club since her junior year. She also has been on the staff of the literary magazine since she was a freshman, and this year she is the senior editor.
Turner is equally busy outside of school. She has taken piano lessons for 10 years, and baby-sits often. She also enjoys spending time with her friends and family. Her mother and sisters are all proud of her achievements.
A large part of Turner's life is her church, Calvary Memorial, where she is extremely active. She is a member of the church choir, the prayer group and the puppet team. She also works in the church nursery and helps regularly with the children's programs.
Turner will attend Virginia Tech and plans to major in architecture.
Although she is excited about graduating, she said she will miss high school. When asked what she liked most about Fleming, she answered with a smile, "I like the people. The teachers are always willing to do whatever they can to help you."
by CNB