GRAVETTE -- John Edwards was presented with the Dr. Daniel L. Pilkinton Award for outstanding service to public education on Dec. 10. Daniel Pilkinton was widely known throughout the state for his lifelong service to public education and was closely linked to the Arkansas School Boards Association since its inception.
When Edwards is around, spirits are lifted and every person who serves the school knows that what they do matters. Edwards has been a Gravette school board member since 2003, serving in various roles, and has served as board president three times.
"Edwards has been an outstanding asset to our school district, teachers, students and community," said Richard Page, superintendent of the Gravette School District. "He comes to Gravette from a history of serving others. His experience in the military reflects his desire to serve; through years of serving in the military entertainment field to coaching sports at a military academy, he is fully aware that education is a people business. There is no one more deserving of being recognized for service and leadership than our very own board member, Mr. John Edwards," Page added.
Edwards helped to develop a fund to be used for students in need. The fund is made possible by voluntary donations to insure that children are provided school lunches, and it even pays outstanding balances. His duty runs deeper than just words or serving on committees. Edwards is a man of action who makes the Gravette School District a better place. From volunteering to read to students at the elementary, serving at the annual Parent-Teacher Organization fall festival, attending as many school events as possible and going beyond the call of duty with his project to create a handicap-accessible garden area for the middle school special education students.
Edwards is the epitome of district pride with an impactful support for each school, staff members, and especially for the children. Edwards developed the Gravette Golf Classic 13 years ago and has raised more than $120,000 for many school programs. This money benefits a variety of different extracurricular activities, including athletics and fine arts programs.
"During one's lifetime, you will meet very few people that make you smile instantly when you see their faces," said Jay Chalk, principal at Gravette High School. "Mr. Edwards is one of those few individuals in my life. I look forward to every opportunity I have to see him. He instantly can light up a room, meeting and individuals by his presence."
On behalf of the Gravette School District, we congratulate John Edwards for this prestigious award and would like to show our gratitude for the ways he has enriched all of our lives.
Community on 12/23/2015