I often brag to my fellow superintendents across the state about how fortunate I am to live and work in Polk County. 

I am quick to mention the tremendous community support we receive for students and schools, the partnerships we enjoy with a wide range of businesses and organizations, and the significant positive roles our municipalities and county government play in our day-to-day operations. 

Last Tuesday [May 1], around midnight, I received a call from the Tryon Fire Chief communicating to me that a main water line had broken near the Tryon Elementary campus.  Immediately I had thoughts of closing the next day, and the disruption that missing a school day causes for parents and families.

When I arrived at the school, I found workers from the town of Tryon and the town manager already diagnosing the situation and well on their way to fixing the problem. They worked nonstop until morning, restored water service to the school and developed a plan of action to ensure the road was repaired quickly.

We were able to open school at our regular time on Wednesday morning, with only minor traffic shifts.  Our parents and families accommodated the changes and inconvenience with gracious understanding, and all (including the superintendent) were very glad students were able to go to school that day. 

This latest example of the cooperation and dedication of our towns, communities and county government simply reinforces my argument for how lucky we are to be in Polk County. I wanted to be sure I took a moment to say thank you to the town of Tryon, and to all of of our towns, county staff, and local community workers and volunteers who serve our students and schools every day. 

Thank you, Polk County!

Aaron Greene,

Superintendent,
Polk County Schools