June 4, 2009

Press Release

TISD Student Benefits from Generous Tribute to Retiring Principal

When Connie Moore announced her retirement after 12 years as principal of Andy Woods Elementary School, the Andy Woods PTA had a dilemma.  What could they give in honor of Connie Moore’s retirement? 

Without hesitation, the PTA asked for donations to be sent to the Tyler ISD Foundation with the designation “Lauren Lewis Memorial Fund,” held by the East Texas Communities Foundation.

“What we did not realize was how generous the results would be for such a request,” said Larry Goddard, Tyler ISD Foundation Executive Director.  “Last week, we wrote a check for $1,205 to the Lauren Lewis Memorial Fund.  The generosity of parents, teachers, staff and friends of Connie Moore has been overwhelming.”

Lauren Lewis died tragically in an accident in March of 2008.  Her parents are Robin and Michael Lewis.  Lauren was a student at Texas A&M University and a graduate of Robert E. Lee High School.  Lauren also attended fifth grade at Andy Woods. 

Each year, a scholarship recipient is selected from Robert E. Lee and All Saints in memory of Lauren Lewis.  This year’s recipients are Sarah Beth Allen from Robert E. Lee and Kathryn Keech from All Saints.

“Those students who are selected to receive the scholarships must represent Lauren’s depth of character and commitment to service,” said Connie Moore.  “I am honored that the scholarship will be perpetuated because of the generosity of the Andy Woods School family.” 

The Moore and Lewis families have been friends for many years and a photo of Lauren is still prominently displayed in the principal’s office.

“This is a fitting tribute to a dedicated educator like Connie Moore—to honor the memory of a young person by helping provide scholarships for future students,” said Goddard.  “Rather than looking back on her years working at Tyler ISD, Mrs. Moore is thinking of the possibilities of success for future students.”

Donations in honor of Connie Moore may be sent to the Tyler ISD Foundation, 315 North Broadway, Suite 401, Tyler, Texas 75702, with the designation “Lauren Lewis Scholarship Fund.”  All proceeds will be transferred to the East Texas Communities Foundation in memory of Lauren Lewis.  

Photo:  Robin and Michael Lewis congratulate Sarah Beth Allen of Robert E. Lee High School and Kathryn Keech of All Saints, 2009 recipients of the Lauren Lewis Scholarship.

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