From the Foxes Den

Dear Wallace-Gregg Elementary Families, Students, and Staff,

As the school year draws to a close, so too does my time as Principal of this extraordinary school. It is with a heart full of pride and a touch of bittersweet emotion that I write this farewell letter, reflecting on the remarkable journey we have shared and the incredible heights we have reached together.

When I first joined the Wallace-Gregg family, my most fervent hope was to see our students recognized across Florence and the Pee Dee for their brilliance, their outstanding character, and their incredible, unlimited potential. As I prepare to embark on a new chapter at the conclusion of the school year, I can confidently say that we have not only met that goal, but we have exceeded it in ways I could have only dreamed of.

This year has been particularly momentous. For the first time in over two decades, Wallace-Gregg Elementary has earned a "Good" rating on our school report card – a testament to the unwavering dedication and hard work of our students, our staff, and our supportive families. This achievement is a powerful symbol of the transformative journey we have undertaken together. We are currently projected to have a nearly “Excellent” report card.

Beyond academics, we have woven a richer tapestry for our students. We proudly unveiled a new school mascot, thoughtfully designed to honor the cherished histories of both Wallace-Gregg and Lester Elementary, uniting our past in a vibrant symbol for our future. We launched our very first full 5th-grade instrumental music program, opening new avenues for creativity and expression. We embraced the future of education by pioneering ABii AI instruction, providing our students with innovative learning opportunities. Furthermore, the implementation of M.T.S.S. has allowed us to provide more individualized and meaningful instruction, ensuring that every child receives the support they need to thrive.

Our school environment has also undergone a remarkable transformation. We have celebrated our history with new decor that proudly reflects our legacy, while providing our students with state-of-the-art facilities. New playgrounds now echo with laughter and play, our new cafeteria provides a bright and welcoming space, new classroom furniture enhances the learning environment, and the revitalized front of our school and landscaping offer a welcoming embrace to all who enter.

None of this would have been possible without our phenomenal teaching teams. Your dedication, your passion, and your willingness to go above and beyond for our students are truly inspiring. You are the heart and soul of Wallace-Gregg, and I am deeply grateful for your tireless efforts and outstanding work. I also thank our incredible support staff, who are some of our greatest unsung heroes.

The spirit of our Wallace-Gregg family has also experienced a true renaissance. Our APT has been revitalized, and family activities like Bingo Night, Duke Energy Night, and Trunk or Treat have seen record-breaking attendance, strengthening the bonds within our community. We have forged stronger connections with the rich history of Wilson High School and significantly increased our partnerships within our zone family, creating a more cohesive and supportive network for our students. The arts have flourished within our walls, with beautiful chorus and band concerts and enriching partnerships with Coastal Carolina University.

To the phenomenal families of the Wallace-Gregg community, thank you. Your unwavering support, your active participation, and your belief in our school have been instrumental in our success. You are an integral part of the Swamp Fox family.

Finally, and most importantly, thank you to the most important members of our Wallace-Gregg family – our incredible students, our beloved Swamp Foxes. Your enthusiasm, your curiosity, your resilience, and your potential inspire me every single day. It has been the greatest privilege of my career to serve as your principal.

Please know that I will always remain your greatest champion, cheering you on from afar. Remember what we say on the announcements each morning: "You are loved. You are wanted." And for me, I will always cherish the time I spent here, and say with heartfelt sincerity, "I was so honored I was at Wallace-Gregg Elementary." You will always be loved and you will always have me in your corner.

Wishing you all the very best for continued success and happiness in the years ahead ( I eagerly await the day you walk across the stage at Wilson, diploma in hand) and my warm wishes and welcome to your next principal, Ms. Myah Woods.