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Oxford School District Recognizes 2021 Parents of the Year
Oxford, Mississippi (February 23, 2021) — The Oxford School District has named Marcia Bibbs-Blake as the 2021 Parent of the Year. “Bibbs” was selected as Oxford High School’s for undying devotion to Oxford Schools. From basketball gyms and football fields to the Boys and Girls Club, church suppers and fundraisers, Marcia Bibbs-Blake is always there. Whether her own child is an active participant or her numerous other “children” whom she has loved and mothered for years are participating, Marcia is the best cheerleader and community supporter around. Marcia was a 1984 graduate of Oxford High School. She truly embodies the idea of #chargerforlife.
Most recently, Marcia brought our community together during this pandemic by providing a way for thousands of Oxford Charger fans to participate in football and basketball games by providing broadcasts on her Facebook page. From the vibrant commentary, cheering, and the occasional “Hey, how’s your Mama?” Fans watching from their living room with Marcia could enjoy all the love and community that hometown sports provide without the Covid-19 risks.
Marcia has one son, Q Blake who is graduating from OHS in May. He plans to attend Mississippi State University in the fall.
Parents of the Year honored by the district during its annual parent involvement recognition program include:
Hattie Steiner,
Bramlett Elementary School Parent of the Year
Hattie Steiner’s leadership has been a key part to our successful line of communication between school and home during this difficult year. During the school year, Mrs. Steiner has scheduled monthly planning meetings, organized and overseen teams of parents to be in charge of multiple projects. Some of the projects include organizing our Charger Character Time Learning Lab each month, organized monthly goodies for the teachers, fundraising opportunities, and classroom learning experiences for the students. She is currently serving on the board for our local Le Bonheur fundraising committee, on the board of the Lafayette Oxford Foundation for Tomorrow (LOFT), on the board of the O.U. Methodist Church, and as an academic advisor for Kappa Delta Sorority. Mrs. Steiner is married to Chris Steiner and they have two children: Isla (2nd grade at Central) and Isabella (Kindergarten at Bramlett).
Dr. Meredith Griffin,
Central Elementary School Parent of the Year
Dr. Griffin’s leadership skills have helped build a collaborative partnership between CES, our families, and our community. Just as excited as staff and students were to begin 2020 in our brand new building, Dr. Griffin enthusiastically spearheaded many projects, including a new clothes closet, providing monthly snacks for teachers, and overseeing our December Love Pack Drive. However, the most notable project she took on this year was serving as chair of the “Recess Success…Paving the Way to Play” fundraising committee. With the original desire to raise $50,00, Dr. Griffin’s efforts, along with our generous community exceeded the goal and ultimately raised $75,000. Dr. Griffin is married to Dr. Josh Griffin and is mom to Anders (4th grade) and Harris (2nd grade).
Mansi Shah-Patel,
Della Davidson Elementary School Parent of the Year
Mrs. Patel has been involved in organizing the yearly fundraiser, Check It Chargers, the clothes closet for students in need, and the Reading Is Fundamental program, which provides a book to every third grader. She not only works during the academic school year, but uses the summer months to help get the school ready for students and works with administrators to ensure PTO funds and volunteers have a plan in place to ensure success of many programs. Although COVID has made it hard for PTO to be in the school this year, Mrs. Patel has created many opportunities for the PTO to show appreciation to the teachers at DDES. She has gone out of her way to ensure the PTO helps and supports the school in any way imaginable through this tough time. Mrs. Patel currently serves as the President Elect of the Oxford School District Foundation board, and she consistently advocates for our teachers and students through this platform. She truly is an integral part of this district and works tirelessly to help us provide as many opportunities to students as possible. She has two children, Anya (3rd grade) and Dev (5th grade).
Sarah McLellan,
Oxford Intermediate School Parent of the Year
Mrs. McLellan works behind the scenes to ensure teachers, faculty and staff have what they need. She is always one of the first ones to step in and offer a hand to help in any capacity needed and one of the last ones to leave after an event. When I think about Mrs. McLellan, I always think about her monthly visits to our school to celebrate teachers for example, she has helped pass out smoothies, Halloween goody bags, lunches, etc. Mrs. McLellan is a joy to all who meet and work with her. She is humble, respectful and does not work for gifts or accolades; however, she deserves this recognition and honor because of all that she does for everyone at OIS. She has two children, Andrews (9th grade) and Elizabeth (6th grade).
Carmen Mattox,
Oxford Middle School Parent of Year
Mrs. Mattox supports the education of all students by serving as the Secretary of the OMS Parent Teacher Organization, coordinating events for the staff, and supporting the extracurricular activities of Oxford Middle School. While our normal activities have been changed to follow the Covid guidelines, Mrs. Mattox continues to be available to help whenever we need her. As one OMS teacher said, “Mrs. Mattox always has a smile on her face. Every month I see her setting up teacher happies. She along with the other PTO officers makes us feel special. Each month is like a little boost to my self-esteem.” Mrs. Mattox is one of the parents I can call on when either a teacher or a student needs extra support. She is one of the reasons OMS teachers feel validated during this very difficult time. Carmen has one child, Sanders (7th grade).