Character Counts Mid Shore (CCMS) recently held a King and Queen of Character Celebration to honor two of the program’s long-time volunteers.
Sixteen years ago the Winners Walk Tall program was introduced at Easton Elementary School Moton Building in grades 2 and 3. The following year, the program expanded to grades 4 and 5. It was at this time that Merrilie Ford became a Character Coach in the 4th grade. Ford had seen Don Casson, a Character Coach in 3rd grade, deliver a lesson featuring “many hats” that you wear in life. She became interested, started being a Character Coach in 1999 at the elementary level than adding high school classes in 2007 and is now coaching at Easton Middle School.
In 2000, the Winners Walk Tall program began at the middle school level and the Reverend Nate Southworth volunteered immediately. Coach Southworth had heard of trouble in middle schools and wanted to be part of a solution. After being in Easton Middle School every week, he never saw evidence of any trouble. What he actually found was engaged, caring teachers and respectful students. Today, he continues to coach classes in 6th grade.
A dinner was held in their honor at William Hill Auditorium and was attended by family and friends. Teacher Mrs. Tracey Talbott, spoke on Queen Ford’s behalf stating that they have formed a friendship for the many years together. Talbott recalled some of Ford’s lessons including one about table manners and when Ford brought in her good dinnerware to use as part of a responsibility lesson. King Southworth’s four grown children talked about how their father is truly a caring person; always ready to help others and has served as a role model for them and their friends.
..
Write a Letter to the Editor on this Article
We encourage readers to offer their point of view on this article by submitting the following form. Editing is sometimes necessary and is done at the discretion of the editorial staff.