Powder Springs Mayor Pat Vaughn recently visited Varner Elementary School to recognize the staff and students for their continued focus on anchoring excellence in a safe harbor for learning. 

She began her visit by thanking Ann Gilbert, Varner’s Teacher of the Year, and Dawn Roddy, Varner’s Classified Employee of the Year, for their continued dedication to students. 

Next, Vaughn met with a special writer, April Edmonston, a student in Mr. Benzin’s fifth grade class. April shared a piece she wrote about the fall. Vaughn invited April to speak at the next Powder Springs City Council meeting to share her writing.

Vaughn concluded her visit by speaking to Varner’s 110 students that achieved their Summer Academic Challenge. She shared how proud she was of their success and continued determination to reach their academic goals. 

The Summer Academic Challenge is a voluntary program that encourages students to master specific skills during the summer prior to beginning school.  This assists the students in beginning the school year equipped with skills to achieve their new grade level’s standards. 

The students were recognized with a special treat, certificate, and a free kid’s meal voucher from Chili’s. Varner is very proud of their students’ summer achievement and was happy to have the mayor of Powder Springs visit and recognize their hard work.

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