Special to The Post-Searchlight

Twenty-six years after her retirement as principal, Winterville Elementary School, near Athens, Ga., honored Bainbridge native Patricia (Pat) Britton by naming the school’s media center for her at a recent reception. Britton served as principal from 1972-1986.

During a surprise reception celebrating her 80th birthday, friends and former colleagues noted her reputation for providing a supportive, nurturing climate for both students and teachers, and her lasting contributions to the district’s instructional program through the establishment of parent conferences and the open library concept.

Mrs. Deborah Haney, current principal, along with Superintendent Philip D. Lanoue, presented a plaque designating the Pat Britton Media Center. On the plaque, Ms. Britton’s challenge to teachers and students reads: “Let them read, learn, discover, lead.”

Haney said of the occasion, “We take pride in naming the Media Center at Winterville in honor of Ms. Britton. It is a joy to be able to celebrate her many contributions to the Clarke County School District and the community at large. She is still giving through donations to the Media Center in her honor. To date, Winterville Elementary has received $3,405.00, and the funds have been used to purchase new books and a globe for the media center.”

Submitted by Joan D. Humphries, former principal, colleague and friend.