Submitted from a Sandusky Elementary parent: 

My daughter’s kindergarten year was so tough on her emotionally due to her anxiety diagnosis and Covid. Mrs. Lamb was so kind and patient with my daughter. There were many times that Nora needed an extra minute in a quiet space, a hug or words of encouragement to give her the confidence she needed to make it through the day. Mrs. Lamb went above and beyond to provide those things for her. She even took the time out of her day to make sure my daughter’s pandemic time birthday was extra special! We couldn’t have asked for a better kindergarten teacher to help our daughter transition into her school years. We are incredibly thankful for Mrs. Lamb!

It takes a VILLAGE!

They say it takes a village to raise a child. Before my kids had started school, I struggled to find my village. I had tried getting involved with many different groups, but never felt like I fit in. My oldest had a tough time making transitions to new things and it took her several weeks to adjust to being at school all day when she started kindergarten. I will never forget how Mrs. Webb worked with her individually to help her adjust in a way that worked for her. During those first few weeks, I quickly realized that I had finally found my village. This is the beginning of our 8th year being a TCM family and I still consider it my village. There have been times I’ve been brought to tears by how grateful I am to know my kids are safe and being loved on by the amazing staff at TCM. – Kelly Proebsting

Being known by name:

Willow is a student at Sandusky Elementary. She and her family moved to Lynchburg from Arkansas the summer of 2022. Sandusky immediately become home when she started school. She was known by name before school even started. Being 800+ miles from family can be really challenging but our family we've gained at the school makes it much easier. Willow has grown so much academically, socially, and emotionally. 

Hearing that the School Board voted to rescind the closure was an exciting time in our home. Not only will Willow get to finish Elementary school there but her little brother will get to start Kindergarten.

Students got involved in local government and advocacy:

Kevin's entire elementary journey was spent at Sandusky Elementary, a place that became more than just a school—it was his second home. From the teachers who nurtured his curiosity to the principal who inspired him daily, Kevin thrived in the supportive environment. But as he began his 5th grade year, he was blindsided by devastating news: the school board had made the unexpected decision to close Sandusky Elementary.

The news hit Kevin hard, but instead of feeling helpless, he felt a strong desire to take action. He couldn't stand by and watch his beloved school disappear without trying to save it. Determined to make a difference, Kevin took a courageous step and spoke at a City Council Meeting. With a heartfelt speech, he shared how deeply Sandusky Elementary had shaped his life, emphasizing the impact of Principal Mr. Womack’s motto: *“We Do it Better When We Do it Together.”*

In his speech, Kevin passionately declared:

*"Every time I hear that, it makes me feel like I'm not alone. If you close down the school, we won't be able to hear his encouraging voice anymore."*

Kevin’s words resonated with many in the room, leaving a lasting impression. But he didn’t stop there. Driven by his commitment to the school and his belief in its importance, Kevin continued to advocate tirelessly. Alongside his fellow Student Council members, he presented his case to the school board, fighting to keep Sandusky Elementary open for future generations.