“When I think back on my time at the Lower School, memories that come to mind are winning the basketball championship at the Boys’ Club in the sixth grade; playing bombardy in the gym and kickball on the old playground; having classes in the White Building, although I didn’t really appreciate the historical significance of it at the time; the ‘haunted’ attic; and the supposed ‘slash’ from a Union soldier’s sword on one of the front columns of the White Building porch. “All of my Lower School teachers were great, and I hate to leave anyone out, but some of my favorites were my mother,
Sharon Monroe (obviously), because she was clear with what she expected and was always fair; Barbara Cordle, because of Elmer the Flea; Rob Hammond, because of his booming laugh and love of sports; Beth Starnes, because of her kindness; and Meg Eberhart, because we could always get her off the subject by getting her to talk about New York (which, from what I understand from my kids who have had her as a sub, still happens).”
“My wife, Lauren, and I know that one of the most significant gifts we can give to our children is that of a strong education, because with that, there will be limitless possibilities for them. Darlington is the best-suited school in Rome to this end. It has the academic curriculum, the faculty, the athletics, the arts, and the facilities available to give our son, Henry (’26), (and his sisters in the future!) plenty of options to grow, to learn and to thrive. The new Early Learning Academy program is wonderful! The fact that Henry spends time with his peers, with his friends in the ELA as a whole, and in more focused groups (like math and reading) has been a great experience for him. In a few short months, he has learned so much and, more importantly, he loves to learn! He absolutely adores his teacher, Mrs. Cox. She is a true gem in Darlington’s crown! In fact, each day when it’s time to leave, Henry never gets in the car without first saying goodbye to her. We are truly blessed that she has played such an integral part of his first year at Darlington.”
“The Lower School has been a special place where our family can feel connected to a loving and caring community. The program creates an atmosphere that encourages children to let their personalities grow in a loving and caring environment. The curriculum is set up to challenge each child where he or she is. Working hard and always doing your best is taught first and foremost. Lola Bradshaw was one of my very favorites because she loved each child for who he or she was and teaching was her life’s mission. She always made everyone feel special.”
“I have loved all my teachers, but my favorite is Mrs. Hutchins because she didn’t let me give up on reading and writing. She called me Rose Bud and always makes me feel special! My favorite subject is math because I love numbers and solving the problems. I read numbers much better than words. Mr. McConnell is an awesome teacher, too! I pretty much love everything about my school except homework.”
David Ledbetter (’88), Rome, Ga.
Pictured with husband, Tim Morgan (’87)
Rob Monroe (’87), Cedartown, Ga. Pictured with wife, Amy; children, Thomas (’22), Kate (’20) and Pierce (’18); and mother, Sharon
Georgeanna Dempsey (’23), Rome, Ga.
Chris (Roberts) Morgan (’87), Rome, Ga.
Pictured with son, Henry (’26)
Darlington Magazine