West Tisbury School gives principal a fond send-off
By Janet Hefler - January 18, 2007
In an assembly program held at West Tisbury School last Thursday afternoon, students, faculty, staff, and parents bid principal Michael Halt a heartfelt, loving farewell before he left to report for active duty with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve on Monday.
After one class sang a song of peace inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King, several students read their personal tributes to Mr. Halt. On behalf of Island veterans, Marine veteran Woodrow Williams offered thanks and appreciation to Lt. Col. Halt for his service, and support for him and his family while he is on active duty for the next 12 to 24 months. "I expect to welcome you back home about this time next year," Mr. Williams told him.
West Tisbury School Principal Michael Halt, left, shares a light moment with superintendent James Weiss and interim principal Ed Jerome at a farewell assembly last week. Photo by Ralph Stewart
Superintendent James Weiss also added his good wishes for Mr. Halt and introduced Ed Jerome to everyone as the new interim principal.
Students Elsie Fantasia, Amalie Tinus, Caitlin Colley, Sammi Chaves, and Clare Boland sang "American Tears," by Teresa Jennings. The words from its chorus were especially appropriate: "For the heroes, for the patriots, for the soldiers, for all the pioneers, I'll always be an American and I'll always cry American tears."
A few of those tears were in evidence last Thursday, along with an abundance of smiles, hugs, and good wishes to last a beloved principal until he returns.
