How about dedicating some area within the school in his name. For example, our last Principal retired (after like 30 years) and her main area of focus year after year was the Library. We dedicated the Library in her name, had a naming ceremony and even had it go into the town records. The art teacher even painted a permanent mural in the Library with the principal's name.
Love the idea of finding something that they are passionate about and doing something in his/her honor.... this something that would last....
Also, whatever you do, you should present at a PTO meeting or a special event that can be planned-- that way everyone is included in teh event-- all the more special!
Most schools fly an american flag daily--how about a flag box that has a small plaque on it saying something like "This flag box is donated in honor of Mr. _______ service to our school...he kept us flying with pride" or something like that. Wouldn't be too expensive...or maybe fly a flag over the school for one day and present it to him in a flag box (properly folded of course). I've also see of nice front entry planters donated in honor of the principal...
Does he have a program or some area of education that is special to him? Do a little research-ask some of the teachers, contact his spouse. Find something that will leave behind a reminder of the what he found important.
Also, I would have your group give him a small token to take with him. A scrapbook with notes/pictures from students, a favorite book, a framed photo of the school, something he can have in his new office or at home that will remind him of your school and the fondness that was felt for him by the students, staff and parents. When the principal at our elementary retired, the PTO purchased her a piece of art with reference to the area. I personally gave her a small ink and watercolor piece I had found that had a saying about children.
bucksco;142709 wrote: Our districts is shuffling the elementary school principals. We are sad to see our wonderful principal of 10+ years go and would like for the PTO to recognize him is some way. My thought was the PTO could purchase something for the school and dedicate it to him with a marker or plaque. My problem is I am not sure what. I would like something functional for the school, but don't want to do something that is going to be a big deal to get approved by the school board (facility committee). Ideas??!?!
My first thought was something for the play ground. But, not knowing your school my guess is that would probably have to be approved. So, how about a book series, set of gym equipment, new musical instruments, etc. Something small that can go into a class room that no one would think a thing about. Is there one grade level that he used to teach before being a principal that could use a new piece of equipment or something? A hobby he enjoys that could also be donated? (Such as the books for reading, etc.) If nothing else how about a tree, planted in his honor with a marker that says something about... "In honor of Mr. So and So for helping so many to grow in knowledge." (Not great but it's early... bear with me! )
Also, I know our school has a scholarship program for children with learning disabilities. They are able to attend a special course over the summer, parents pay for part of it but the PTO always makes a few partial scholarships available as well. Our school board member passed away this past year and had been such a driving force for the school that we renamed the scholarship program in her honor. It didn't really cost us anything extra (since we spend the money each year anyhow) but it did recognize her contributions to our school. If you have something like that or a scholarship fund for field trips or something naming that in the principals honor might be a way to go.
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