Students and faculty at Andrew Lewis Middle School gathered Wednesday with retirees and family members to re-dedicate a dogwood tree honoring two former school employees.
The tree honors Jimmiel Capps Johnston, who served as a media clerk, and Connie Thurston, who spent 31 years as a health and physical education teacher and mentor at the school.
Johnston was remembered for making students feel seen and valued during her time at Andrew Lewis.
Thurston supported generations of students and families as a teacher and mentor. She was also known for holding students accountable, including through visits to detention.
The dogwood and a new memorial sign will remain alongside the Andrew Lewis track as a lasting tribute to Johnston and Thurston and their contributions to the school and Salem community.
-The Salem Times-Register
