Earlier this evening we shared the following (lengthy) message via email with PCSC school families. We'd like to share it with the community now that our families have heard the news! Here is what was sent via SchoolMessenger.
News #1:
Many of you have inquired about the name of the new elementary, and we’ve been eager to get to that part of this process. With the help of our 3rd and 4th grade students and some suggestions from the community, we are thrilled to announce that before much longer, you will see a sign on the site of the future GUILFORD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL.
As residents of Guilford Township, the selection of the name Guilford not only represents us geographically, but is also a nod to our history. Guilford was the first settled township in Hendricks County, with records dating back to 1820. Growth was quick, and by 1824, Guilford Township was more heavily populated than all other Hendricks County townships combined!
One other important reflection on the name: Samuel Jessup, an early settler here, selected the name in honor of Guilford County, North Carolina, which was home to many of the area’s first residents.
News #2:
We are thrilled to share the news that Mrs. Colleen Perry has been named Principal of Guilford Elementary School. Colleen joined the Plainfield Schools family four years ago as the Assistant Principal at Clarks Creek Elementary.
In making the decision, Superintendent Scott Olinger had this to say: “Colleen Perry was the clear candidate for this role. She’s ready for the new challenge, having been an excellent Assistant Principal who works well with our other elementary administrators.”
By making the announcement now, Colleen will become very involved in planning decisions for Guilford Elementary, while continuing her daily activities at Clarks Creek Elementary.
Colleen began her education career in neighboring Wayne Township, where she taught grades 1, 2 and 4 for nine years before spending seven years as an assistant principal in Chapel Wood and Chapel Glen elementary schools. Since then, she’s become a familiar, trusted face to our Clarks Creek students, staff and families.
The Perry family lives in Plainfield, where her boys are firmly rooted in school and athletics. Colleen commented that she and her family love living in a neighborhood surrounded by the students she sees at school each day. She added “it’s not often that a leader and staff can work together to develop a school culture. This is such an exciting opportunity!”
We will be featuring more information about Guilford Elementary and Mrs. Perry in the January issue of the school newsletter.
Finally, a reminder. Thursday evening we will be hosting a Community Forum at Plainfield High School: Raising Kids to Navigate Today’s Social Pressures. The forum, which is open to the public, begins at 6:30 pm in the high school auditorium, and should end by 8:00. Topics will include addictions, eating disorders and suicidal thoughts, bullying, self-harm, poverty, troubled families and more.
National youth presenter Nathan Harmon will participate in a panel discussion that includes Hendricks Regional Health Sports Medicine physician Dr. Mark Booher, Hendricks County Director of Community Connections Bridgette Collins, and PHS Student Assistance Counselor Christa Detzel.
While you may not think these topics apply to your family, it is safe to say that they apply to someone within the reach of many of our students. We encourage you to make time to listen and learn about the struggles our children are facing, as well as the resources that are readily available in Plainfield and Hendricks County.
There is no charge to attend.