Category: Athens

The old gym at Bel Air Elementary is being removed. Both Bel Air and South Athens Elementary will receive new activity centers as part of Athens ISD’s ongoing construction projects. Central Athens Elementary will have a new library. (Toni Garrard Clay/AISD)

Third-grader Presley Edwards plays an adorable Rudolph this week in South Athens Elementary’s musical production of “How the Penguins Saved Christmas.” (Toni Garrard Clay/AISD)

Athens Public Education Foundation members raised $32,000 during their recent “Casino Night” fundraiser, which will fund several classroom grants for Athens ISD teachers to be awarded in the next few weeks. The grants, which the foundation began awarding in 2010, are used to fund educational programs, tools and projects that are outside AISD’s budget. APEF is not part of the Athens Independent School District, but the district is the sole beneficiary of the foundation’s financial support. To make a tax-deductible contribution, send a check, made out to APEF, to 104 Hawn Street, Athens, Texas 75751 or visit athenspef.org. Pictured (from left) are APEF Board President Sarah Grey, Vice Presidents Lyndi Briggs, Kari Wilmeth and Stan Brown, Secretary Sarah Tinsley, Treasurer Armondo Rincon, and members Tracye Smith, Rita Curington, Denise Swartwood, Paige Gatlin and Ed McCain. (Toni Garrard Clay/AISD)

By Toni Garrard Clay/AISD Communications Coordinator

The quote on Casey Pitchford’s Twitter account is perfect for the Athens High School senior. “Work until you don’t have to introduce yourself,” it reads. And that’s just what he’s done.

Pitchford is a third-generation cattle raiser and rancher. He is the president of Athens FFA, works for his family’s business, Pitchford Cattle Services, and plays catcher on the baseball team, which last year advanced to regional quarterfinals.

“He’s a tremendous person,” said Head Baseball Coach Dallas Robertson. “He has a very strong work ethic, and not just in baseball but also in class. He’s one of those guys who stays longer and works, and he’s always encouraging others.”

Continue reading “AHS senior an example of what hard work accomplishes”