| Nancy Parker - No Greater Foundation |
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 When I graduated from Opelika High School in 1984, I had no idea just how rich an education I had earned. Everyday, I use a piece of what that school system instilled in me. From reporting the news, to interviewing the President at the White House, or traveling abroad on assignment, Opelika City Schools armed me with the confidence to step into challenges, not around them.I can thank teachers like David Crouse who brought Economics to life, and Fred Stearns who showed me the importance and joy of learning another language. The skill of being able to understand and speak Spanish has given me an edge in my daily work. I thank Miss Myrtis Burton, a no-nonsense teacher who insisted her students master the typewriter. Each time I type a story on deadline, I think of her and her insistence on speed and perfection. My nurturing in the school system began in first grade, when my elementary school principal Gladys Armstead took me under her wing and encouraged a wide eyed little girl just starting out. 
 I grew up surrounded by examples of the excellence that the school system had to offer. My father William Parker was a longtime middle school principal, and my mother Patsy Boyd Parker was director of the guidance department at Opelika High School. My parents always taught me that being mediocre wasn't good enough.    So many teachers in the Opelika School System demanded excellence from every student whose life they touched. 
 The class of 1984 was a class of achievers and continues to be. They are located throughout the world doing great things and making contributions in every facet of society. 
 Opelika was a launching pad for my classmates and me. I can think of no greater place to build a foundation. Nancy Parker Anchor WVUE-TV, FOX 8 New Orleans |