Barack H. Obama Elementary School of Technology hosts “Launching of the Beautification” ceremony.

Gratitude. Beauty. Good stewardship. All were in great abundance on April 12, 2017 at the Barack H. Obama Elementary Magnet School of Technology.

Amidst blue skies and singing birds, the students, staff, faculty, community volunteers, and business sponsors of the school’s “Beautification Club” gathered to celebrate the launch of this hands-on, proactive organization.

As students participated in an arts and craft Easter-basket-building project, attendees admired floral plantings and hardscape décor supplied by club partners and event sponsors Home Depot, Ace Hardware, and Kroger.

“Ugliness is so grim,” noted school representatives quoting former U.S. First Lady, “Lady Bird” Johnson. “A little beauty, something that is lovely, I think, can help create harmony which will lessen tensions. The belief that beauty can improve the mental health of a society,” school officials continued, “became Lady Bird’s true legacy, and we continue that legacy today.”

“The mission of the Beautification Committee is to create a safe and attractive learning environment for our students, and to educate and engage students in beautification projects and clean-up activities to make sure that our school stays beautiful,” noted Mayfield.

“May the excitement of today enthuse you,” Mayfield continued. “May its enchantment surround you. And may the fellowship that we share create happy memories and smiling, magical moments – today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.”

Those present at the ceremony included:

  • School Principal: Mrs. Angela Thomas-Bethea
  • Assistant Principals: Mrs. Pamela Wooley and Mr. Winfred Watts
  • Club Founder: Dr. Betty S. Mayfield
  • Home Depot Representatives / Arts & Crafts Leaders: Ms. Karen Ryan and Ms. Sheena Bryant
  • Beautification committee members, students, volunteers, and friends

View photos of the event here.