When Forks River students make their way back to school this Wednesday, they will be greeted with a new walking track!
Originally approved by former superintendent Roger Lewis and the Smith County Board of Education in May 2008 and under then-FRS principal Melinda Spivey, who currently serves as the supervisor of instruction, the “Walking Track Project” was completed this June.
Completion of the walking track was a major goal of FRS principal Leslie Pope’s when she accepted the position last summer. A request was submitted for bid approval to the BOE and current director of schools Barry Smith for Tiff Arnold Paving to construct the asphalt track.
Fundraising efforts of former and currents parents and students of FRS covered the entire cost of the project.
Pope says the track is a beautiful addition to their campus that both benefits students and teachers and has been a service to the entire community — perfect for walking, running and riding your bicycle. It is adjacent to the playground, basketball court and covered picnic area, making it a perfect place to exercise while children play in a safe environment that is within eyesight throughout your walk.
The track connects to the drive and is 1,100 feet around and 8 feet wide.
Pope would like to thank everyone who make this project possible, including: Mr. Smith, Mr. Lewis, Mrs. Spivey, the FRS parents and students, our generous community for supporting our fundraising efforts, Tiff Arnold Paving for their spectacular work, the 2008 school board, and the current school board for their support and approval of this project.
Everyone is invited to visit Forks River to see and use this beautiful walking track. It is available for public use anytime school is not in session.
