Black Diamond school described as ‘cheerful, bright, welcoming’

Originally published in the Voice of the Valley, November 2, 1977

By Dianne Wilson

Friendly faculty and co-workers: Front row from left, Barbara Alberts, Nellie Olson, Lois McGreen, Arlene Hubber, Mary Lee Borreson, Barbara Greenhoe. Back row from left, Richard Hubber, Jan Klemann, Maryrose Madder, Julianne McNeeley, Julie Weinbrecht, Patricia Elder, Jack Thomas (principal).

What began as a reporter’s quest for an interesting feature turned into a “nostalgic trip” for me several weeks ago, when I visited the Black Diamond School. It was the first time I had been in an elementary school since my teaching days in Northern California. However, it was a delightful experience.

The first impression was that of a cheerful, bright and welcoming place to be. Halloween decorations were up, a variety of “smile” faces grinned, and colorful posters, appealing to any age group, adorned the hallways.

Mounted outside most of the classrooms are beautiful hand carved wooden plaques identifying the teachers and the grade levels—the work of Rick Ryerse, former teacher, who is now teaching at Selleck School. There was also a strong feeling of harmony; classroom doors open with students either working quietly at their desks or cooperating on various projects.

The ensuing interview with Jake Thomas, principal, disclosed a wealth of information about the school. The present buildings were dedicated in 1963; the current enrollment, 160 pupils, and many extras are offered.

Twice a week, Cherie Mitchell provides both music instruction and physical education programs for each grade. The fifth and sixth grades receive band instruction from Jack Prindle twice a week. In addition, there is an excellent Title I, federally-funded Remedial Reading Program under the able direction of Julie Weinbrecht, with the assistance of Arlene Hubber.

In further discussion with Thomas, I learned that Rich Hubber, sixth grade teacher, was raised in Black Diamond, as was kindergarten teacher Julianne (Dal Santo) McNeeley, Maryrose Madden, fifth grade teacher, has been with the school more than 20 years, and is a resident of the city. Jake Thomas serves both Black Diamond School and Selleck School (with an enrollment of 60 students) as principal. He spends mornings in Black Diamond and afternoons in Selleck.

The bottom line of this feature is the enjoyment experienced when Bob Gerbing, Voice photographer, accompanied by Ruby Ziegner, took pictures of the faculty and part of the supporting staff. There were declarations, overheard from the teachers’ workroom, “I don’t want to be in the picture”; Thomas exhorting them, “Come on, troops, move out.”

The actual photographing session, however, demonstrated a very much-together group of people, displaying, perhaps unconsciously, their enjoyment of what they’re doing.

In my experience, a school team which has its act together, cares about what it is doing, and is enthusiastic, produces the best that education can offer. To paraphrase a well-known TV commercial, “Your Children are in Good Hands,” Black Diamond.

(Ed. note: In a follow-up we will explore in greater detail the work being done by the supportive members of the staff, including the custodian. Yeah, Herb, even you!)

More Diggin’s

Bits & pieces: We were sorry to hear that Mayor Gomer Evans has had the flu.

There will be a public hearing preceding the City Council meeting November 3 at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, regarding federal revenue sharing and the use of those funds.