On Monday, Nov. 15, Caraway Elementary School held a dedication ceremony for its new Spark Park.
The event was hosted by Caraway Elementary Principal Dr. Andrenetta Marshall and her staff and was attended by Aldine ISD Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney, members of her Executive Leadership Team (ELT), elected officials and their representatives and members of the community.
Dr. Goffney said having a Spark Park at Caraway Elementary School was a wonderful thing for the community.
“Parks are the hearts of our communities and a place where all are welcome,” she said. “This park promotes community wellness and provides places for community members to get outside and be active, encouraging a healthier lifestyle. Parks give individuals a space for meeting their neighbors in person; a space for kids and adults to gather and meet new people who enjoy similar activities.”
She thanked all of the organizations who worked together to make Caraway’s Spark Park a reality.
“These are the people most responsible for the creation of this park and the dreamers to whom we can all be grateful for the good work they have done. I want to thank the playground construction crew, the school and district staff, the congregation of Grace Church and our Caraway families and their supporters. On behalf of Aldine ISD, thank you all for your support and efforts to construct the Spark Park,” Dr. Goffney said.
Dr. Marshall delivered welcoming remarks and Grace Church Pastor Brandon Barber delivered the invocation. A group of Caraway students led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance and the Pledge to the Texas Flag.
A representative from U.S. Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee’s office presented Dr. Marshall with a United States flag that flew over the U.S. Capitol on Nov. 11, and a representative from State Representative Jarvis Johnson’s office presented the school with a Texas flag that flew over the Texas Capitol.
A group of Caraway scholars recited the poem, “I’m Determined To Be Somebody Someday.”
Amy Peck, Houston City Councilmember District A also delivered remarks, which were followed by remarks from a representative from Houston City Councilmember Tarsha Jackson’s office. Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth also delivered remarks.
The Groove 44 then delivered a dance performance, which was followed by the Caraway Elementary Orff Ensemble, which performed “Balafon” by Walt Hampton.
Kathleen Ownby, Executive Director of Spark Park, then presented certificates to a number of individuals who worked on Caraway’s Spark Park project.
Dr. Marshall then delivered the closing remarks.
“This is a place where we will have hope for all,” Dr. Marshall said.