JUNE
16, 2014 – Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools
is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the consolidation of the city
and county school systems. As part of that, we’re recognizing people who are a
product of the school system who now work for the school system.
Johnetta
Huntley graduated from Atkins High School in 1969. At Atkins, her last name was
Moore, and, a "Letter Girl," she wore the letter “T” in the letter sweaters spelled out “ATKINS.”
Huntley
started working in education elsewhere and joined the school system in 1977 at
Forest Park Elementary School. Over the years, she worked as a school counselor
at several schools. At John F. Kennedy High School, she was a counselor and the
first Career Technical Education (CTE) Coordinator.
She
retired from Kennedy in May 2013. This year, she has been working with the
school system on temporary assignment to such schools as Carver High School and
Kernersville Middle School.
Here
is what Huntley sent in:
“Call it junior high or middle school, it is still
one of the most wonderful, impossible and inspiring places in the world!
Johnetta Huntley |
“This school, although quite large, didn't seem
overwhelming. It was state of the art, a new design. Changing
classes was fun. Core subjects had their own halls as did
electives. Teachers brought a level of excitement to their
classes. I learned later several were first-year teachers like
my PE teacher, Mrs. Peggy Witherspoon, and Mrs.
Sherard. I further developed my sewing craft from Mrs. Knight,
and writing from ALL of my English teachers. I continued in the dance
program and chorus having been a part of the ‘operettas’ at Skyland (now
Headstart) and Diggs elementary schools.
“The administration at East Winston was Mr.
Samuel Cary, Principal from Diggs, Mr. Henry Jones and Mr. James
Hollingsworth, Assistants. There were many assemblies (preparation for a
cultured audience), talent shows, dance group recitals,
art shows, quarterly band and choir performances and our
favorite weekly Friday night school dances in the gym, costing 25 cents per
person!
“So young then, our parents didn't speak of matters
that would frustrate and overwhelm a child, we didn't know we were in a segregated
school system. No busing, two separate school operations. We had
neighborhood schools.
“We enjoyed a full schedule of football, basketball
and baseball, complete with cheerleaders and concessions. PTA
meetings were heavily attended. Sadly, I had to go with my parents.
“One remembrance I will forever hold near was on that
bleak, cloudy day - so it seemed - when our President, John F. Kennedy, was
killed. I was in Mrs. Josie Simon's 7th grade Social Studies class.
We were released at 1 p.m., walking quietly and tearfully down that long
sidewalk home. After Christmas break, we returned to a newly named
school. A fitting place to honor him.
“As I often think about it, much of the energy
expressed by the faculty at this wonderful place prepared us for the ‘Senior’
experience of high school – graduating from Atkins Senior High.
“I began my 40-year career in education in 1973,
thus coming full circle, completing 30 great years May 1, 2013 at
John F. Kennedy High School.
“I believe I will continue in some way to touch the
heart of a child.”
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