The Start of School

8/7/2007  - School begins Aug. 22 in the city and the Gary Community School Corp. is seeking divine intervention through the One Church/One School program.

Area religious leaders met with Gary school principals Monday at the Gary Area Career Center for the kickoff of a joint partnership. They signed contracts, both parties vowing to follow the vision of One Church/One School, in which they'll work together to improve the academic achievement, social behavior and personal development of children.

The Rev. Carrell K. Cargle, coordinator of the kickoff and the national vice-president of One Church/ One School, said 60 area churches are signed up to be involved. "We are going to have pastors volunteer their time with the students, especially on the first day of school. Students from all grade levels will see a presence from those in the church community. At this day and age, all young people are in dire need of guidance," Cargle said. He added that among some of the duties the churches will do, is serve as mentors, tutors and field-trip chaperones.

One Church/One School has been a part of the Gary community schools for more than nine years. Gary School Superintendent Mary Steele-Agee said recent tragedies involving family disputes that ended in violent deaths have affected children in the school system. "I am here with a heavy heart, as we have had tragedies occur over the summer where children have either lost a parent or their own lives to violence. These are examples of the need for a partnership with religious leaders and our children," she said.

By Lisa DeNeal Post-Tribune correspondent