For more than 20 years, the junior high and high school has invited grandparents to come in for breakfast with their grandchildren.
“It’s become a great tradition here at Madison,” said Principal Curtis Philpot as he welcomed the crowd. “Grandparents are a huge part of our students’ lives and we’re thrilled to honor you today.”
Brenda Adams, grandmother of 17-year-old junior Ashley O’Learly, has 22 grandchildren and said she has attended every breakfast since it began.
“I love coming to the school and spending time with my grandchildren with a little one on one time,” Adams said.
Ashley said although she lives with her grandmother, there isn’t always enough time to catch up with one another.
“I like the breakfast because I actually get to sit down and talk to her,” said Ashley. “We don’t always get to eat breakfast together because I’m always so rushed in the morning. So I’m glad we have the chance to do this.”
Austin Sparkman, a 17-year-old senior, was thrilled to have his grandmother, Rebecca Worek, come from Waynesville to participate in the breakfast for the first time.
“Grandma is like one of my best friends,” Sparkman said. “She has this sense of humor that you just don’t see. I always can go to her to talk and she gives me a boost. She is a good role model and there is no one like her.”
Worek was eager to come to the breakfast and spend time with her grandson.
“I called him early this morning to make sure he was ready,” said Worek. “He’s so busy with chorus, the school play, soccer, tennis and school. But, he always manages to find the time to spend with his family. That isn’t something you always see. I’m very proud of him.”
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