HOUSTON – May 31, 2018 – Annually, Edwin Wells Middle School ends the school year with an “extravaganza” featuring the school’s electives and fine arts program in a grand finale of song and dance. This year’s event was extra-special as it included the school’s 40th anniversary celebration.

“The celebration tonight is a moment to recognize the school’s dedication to nurturing the potential of every student,” said Board of Trustees President Rhonda Newhouse. “Of course, this event wouldn’t be possible without the ongoing support of the community and our parents, committed to ensuring this school has the resources it needs to thrive and grow. On behalf of my fellow trustees, thank you for being here to provide that steadfast encouragement.”

Also present in the audience were family members of the late Edwin M. Wells, the school’s namesake, who was known for his commitment to education, especially in Spring ISD, where he served on the Board of Trustees for several years, four of those years as president.

“It is pretty amazing – when you say 40 years – that it has really been that long,” said Larry Wells, son of Edwin Wells. “I can still recall when our dad first told us how really proud he was that they were building a new school, and they were going to place his name on the school building. He served not only on school boards and college boards, but he worked at the church and various community organizations, so it was something he really enjoyed and something he did up until the time when his health wouldn’t allow it.”

The legacy of hard work and dedication demonstrated by their school’s namesake, was evident in the quality of the performances throughout the evening. Although the event showcased the school’s fine arts program, including performances by the band, choir, dance team and theater students, there were also videos projected on the big screens of teachers and coaches talking about how their different programs at the school help students discover their talents and develop the skills and character traits needed to succeed.

An Nguyen, an eighth grader who has been in the Wells Choir all three years, credits her experience there with helping her on her way to reaching her goal of becoming a professional singer. “This school made me more confident about myself. It made me more confident in my singing,” Nguyen said.

Following the band’s rousing performance of Bach’s “Bourree,” Superintendent Dr. Rodney Watson encouraged parents in the audience to keep their children enrolled in music. “Many of you may not know it, but what you are doing today really can help set the stage for free college tuition moving forward. So parents, do not let your kids quit playing in the band and choir after middle school. Continue to push on,” Watson said.

Principal Henri Lewis closed the event with recognition of her faculty and staff. “In the four years that I have been here it has been a joy to work with the faculty and staff as well as the students. These ladies and gentlemen take it to the max everyday. The work of educating minds as well as the spirits and aspirations of all our students is a full time, over time job. And I want to say thank you so much for all that you do,” Lewis said.