Rockwell Elementary & Robbie Owen

This month we entered into a door not knowing exactly what to expect on the other side. As parents of four grown children, we have walked through this type of door many times, but had never entered one quite like this. Upon approaching the door to Rockwell Elementary School, we were immediately surrounded by green plants and patio decor that made the entryway warm and inviting. As we proceeded inside for our scheduled appointment with Principal Robbie Owen, the office staff greeted us with smiling and friendly faces. We knew immediately that this was the place we had heard about.

We were invited in and sat with Mr. Owen intending to discuss his recent National Honor for Alabama’ s Recipient in the National Distinguished Principals Program. We already knew that the school had been visited earlier by a team made up of Community Leaders, Parents, Students, Principals and Central Office Personnel, and why they came, but we wanted to hear it from Mr. Owen himself to be sure we were factual in our story. Were we ever glad we sat down with Mr. Owen! Before we knew it, we had been talking for thirty minutes or so and felt like we had known him and his staff for years. Never once did Mr. Owen take credit for his award. The entire time he focused on his wonderful staff, students both past and present, volunteers, community support and yes even a teacher’s child serving in Iraq. He also praised his own parents and his respect for them. Even before leaving his office for a tour of the school, we knew we were in trouble.  How could we limit this man’s story to just a couple of paragraphs.

As we walked the hall with Mr. Owen, seeing him interact with students, staff and parents was impressive. Finding out that every student and faculty member played a part in decorating the school with art projects that reflected what they had learned, we then realized why he was so humble. It wasn’t his story or award, it was the school’s story. The walls covered in art were more than impressive, but when you consider arts, lacrosse, golf, volleyball, an eighty member choir, a running program, a rock climbing wall, an a PTA program that raised $60,000 last year, that is extraordinary. Taking into consideration this is all in addition to their regular curriculum. Mr. Owens says that they offer something for every child to find success in. Add to that a principal who without focusing the attention on himself, gives credit to everyone from community leaders, teachers, parents, custodial staff, cafeteria workers and students. You can see why Mr. Owen was nominated for this prestigious award. We were honored to have spent time with him.