For the last two months I have had the privilege of covering the Hartselle Board of Education meetings.

As has been the practice in previous years, a board meeting is held at each of the five schools in the system. Not only have I covered the business conducted during the meeting, but also I’ve witnessed presentations by the school’s faculty as to what is happening at each of the locations. The last two meetings have been held at two of the three elementary schools.

Barkley Bridge and F.E. Burleson elementary schools both gave presentations that were very professional and informative. Both schools shared PowerPoint slideshows highlighting what they are doing to improve their student’s education and to provide an even higher level of learning. They also shared goals for each school and a plan for achieving their long-range plans.

At the center of each plan were the students and what was best for them, not to reach a new plateau or gain more recognition for the faculty or staff. Both schools have been recognized nationally for the work they are doing and should be praised for their efforts.

However, the one thing that kept coming to mind during the presentations was not the goals or the plans that were discussed, but it was the enthusiasm of each teacher and staff member from the schools.

Several of the teachers were almost bubbly talking about what they had in store for the students and what they wanted to achieve. Whether it is raising math scores, encouraging reading or working in an outdoor classroom, the excitement they showed is to be commended.

Many times teaching is a profession that does not receive the respect it should and once did.

If anyone witnessed the excitement and positive direction that was put forth at the school board meetings by these two schools, there is no doubt the elementary students of Hartselle are in good hands.

To keep myself out of trouble, I have not had the pleasure of attending a meeting held at Crestline Elementary. I am without a doubt sure that the faculty and staff have the same excitement and enthusiasm for their students as the other two. When the board meeting is held there I will be in attendance.

Now to borrow an example from Burleson principal Sherry Calvert a big “shout out” to all the teachers who go above and beyond to make sure they give their all to each and every student.

Randy Garrison is the president and publisher of the Hartselle Enquirer.