The Newport Plain Talk

NEWPORT-The growth and improvements at Newport Grammar School were highlighted by Principal Sandy Burchette in speaking to the Newport Lions Club Thursday night.

Burchette, who has been in the school system for 30 years and is starting her fifth year as principal at NGS, said the school was established in 1898.

She said the cost to build Newport Academy, as it was called at the time, was $8,000. She said NGS is the oldest continually operated elementary school in the state.

The school had seen numerous additions and renovations through the years and now has an enrollment of 855 students and 120 employees.

Unlike many areas in the country, 68 percent of students attending NGS live in two-parent homes. In addition nearly 41 percent of the parents of NGS students have some college level education.

"We have great parental involvement in our school and that makes a difference," said Burchette, who was joined by Michelle Layman in making a slide presentation to club members.

She also pointed out 20 staff members at the school have master's degree, 23 have an EDS (Educational Specialist) and two have doctorate degrees.

NGS students have consistently ranked much higher than the state average in TCAP (Tennessee Comprehensive Achievement Program) scores, according to Burchette.

She also explained the school's Title 1 efforts and how the school strives to help students with special needs.

Also during Thursday's meeting the Lions Club had its annual installation of officers.

Officers include President Roy Proffitt, First Vice President Sherry Campbell, Second Vice President Quinton Parrott, Third Vice President Andy Austin, Secretary Carol Hagan, Treasurer Jack Suggs, Tail Twister Rita Messer, Lion Tamer Lowery Ratcliff, 2-Year Director Raymond Sutton, 2-Year Director Shelia Gentry, 1-Year Director Bob Burton and 1-Year Director Roland Freeman.

The officers were installed by Lion John Wolfe of Rogersville, who was introduced by Past President Jim Masters.