Pearl Stephens ES campus dedicated

The former Linwood Elementary School is now the newly renovated Pearl Stephens Elementary.

The students and staff held a dedication ceremony Friday. According to a press release, the original facility was constructed in 1965 and was totally renovated this year.

The renovation included new plumbing, lighting, heating, air conditioning and a roof. The new Pearl Stephens Elementary officially opened July 31. Principal Amanda Brantley said they only had three weeks to get moved in.

“I can’t thank everyone involved in this project enough. It took a lot of hard work, hours and dedication,” said Brantley.

Mark Scott, Superintendent of Schools of Houston County, said this project was funded by the 2012-2017 Education-Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax.

“We are very proud of this newly renovated and large facility, which currently serves 408 students in grades three through five,” said Scott.

Pearl Stephens was an active community member of Houston County and was inducted into the Warner Robins Hall of Fame in 2012.

Jerome Stephens, grandson of Pearl, said the family is excited that her legacy still lives on.

“She loved children and always made sure they received the best education,” said Stephens. He also said that the family provides scholarships in her name to continue her legacy.

Following the ribbon cutting, Warner Robins Mayor Randy Toms had a special announcement.

“I’ve known Amanda Brantley since she was a little girl and I am very proud of what all she has accomplished,” he said. “She has a certain way about her, she’s very dedicated and loves the students.” He then went on to say about Pearl Stephens. “She had a way of growing up, a way of teaching and loving her community. And she now has an official ‘Pearl Stephens Way.’”

To that end, Toms presented the street sign to Jerome.

HHJ News