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From the Headmaster
A Word From the Perot Family Headmaster
School is Out, Now What?
Afew years ago, I was taken aback by a conversation I had with a seven-year-old boy. It wasn’t his words that caught me off guard but the flashback of my life’s experiences when he responded to my simple question. While making a bereavement visit to a family here in South Dallas, I came across this little relative of the deceased playing outside on a hot June afternoon. After a brief introduction, I asked this future man, “Aren’t you glad school is out?” His innocent response tossed me back to my childhood years growing up in Chicago. “I’m not glad school is out,” he replied. “When I’m going to school at least I have breakfast, lunch, and something to do every day.”
I could fully identify with his answer. His reality took me back to the struggles my mom had raising her children after my father was killed. She needed help with, in her words, “making ends meet.”
Through the grace of God and the generosity and sacrifices of our volunteers, staff, and supporters, families of children like this seven-year-old have help. This summer, children from South Dallas and beyond will be assured an opportunity for “something to do” and something to eat. Our 8-week
summer program will provide a morning of academics and an afternoon of enrichment in the arts, technology, and athletics, in addition to meals and snacks. Moreover, 652 families will come to our campus to receive 80 pounds of food for each person living in their household
during the crucial summer months.
St. Philip’s is a school, community center, and neighborhood change agent. Many thanks to our supporters who make it possible for us to continue having a mighty impact on the lives of children and families similar to the flashbacks of my younger self. Enjoy this summer edition of our 1600 Magazine. It gives glimpses of evidence of the undeniable impact of the St. Philip’s School and Community Center ministry.
Blessings,
Dr. Terry J. Flowers
