Coahoma Community College - Coahoman Yearbook (Clarksdale, MS)

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8 MRS. VERNON ARMSTRONG, SeC'y. Dems- ' MRS. DOROTHY ARMSTRONG, Sec'y

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Greetings I Old and new brick buildings, old laboratories, aged with tradition and new in curricula - a place built on a strange mixture of dreams and necessities - a place marked by leaders of strong will, achievements and con- troversy - students new in spirit and purpose, from old and honored southern farms, large and small cities and towns, old and proud people. This is Coahoma Junior College. The atmosphere here this year is one of chal- lenge. This dynamic pace was set by the many freshmen and sophomores who attend the institution this year and is eloquent testimony of its program. It also testifies to the spectacular growth based on the quest of a nationwide audience for scientific and social change important in the general economic trend. These truths apply with significant meaning and impact to our institution - not only because they are for me a fascinating and favorite subject, but more importantly, because of the vital role Coahoma Junior College plays in the nation's social, political and economic complex. The construction of the science classroom building which houses the offices of the Dean, Registrar and Director of Personnel, the boys' dormitories, the technological buildings followed by the addition to the library and most recently the office of administration provide signifi- cant advances in the physical environment for effective learning and living. But physical environment alone cannot insure the effective interaction that characterizes a great college. There must be continuous change in the way in which its curriculum constantly changes to meet the needs of the students. Because the college is not a conventional institution, the curriculum changes whenever there is a particular need within the school. The faculty of Coahoma Junior College isrecruited from among scholars and experts. Many have taught in colleges and universities prior to coming to Coahoma. They like academic association but most of all they like to teach. Thus, they bring a fresh and current approach of subject matter to the classroom. They are en- thusiastic and fine - which qualities are evident in the enjoyment shown by students and by the increased en- rollment of the college. These teachers have in common one absorbing interest - the success of our students. They are elated when students show progress and are counseling with them when they do not. They are always engaged in ideas to promote the welfare of the departments and the progress of the students. At no time in history have so many people believed that education is man's one greatest hope. At no time in history have so many people sought it and believed it to be an individual's rightful heritage. At no time in history has there been the urgency to teach more, better and faster. And the administrators of this school more than any other bodv carry the heaviest responsibility for achieving excellence in the school system. Upon their experience and training hangs, in no small measure, the future of American schools. The administrators must visualize through the teachers to establish a climate conducive to experimentation and the release of in- ventive. and creative talents among teachers. Not only does the administration of Coahoma Junior College provide the freedom to try out the new, they provide assistance in thefplanning, the appraisal and evaluation. This is a leap forward in school progress and a source of professional satisfaction to our administration who dares to stay modern. Coahoma Junior College employs all efforts to stay abreast of competition and demand and every driving force to' remain a jump ahead. President , ,T 2222- Y ,f-S.-. - dr, A ,

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mah Again, I extend the editorial staff of the Coahoman my best wishes and sincere congratulations. We salute you for giving generously of your time, efforts, and thoughts in the production of this school wide publication of these on-going activities, The Essence of Coahoma. This publication is an instrument of evaluation which reveals where Coahoma stands with reference to the objectives to which it is committed. We are committed to the belief that a dynamic curriculum must change but change must be justified in terms of the social needs of the times and the maturity level of the students. In keeping with the belief that life long learning is one of the accepted functions of the Junior College and that Vocational and Technical Education is avery important part of the Junior College Program, the curriculum was broadened this year to include Drafting and Design and Building Construction Technology. In addition to the regular students these programs will include adults who have been displaced from former jobs by automation, and school dropouts who are unprepared to take their places as citizens of their community, state, or country. These culturally - disadvantaged adults and youth are to be helped to like themselves and use their potential in learning how to live and how to make a living. You, my friends, will be expected to make a contribution which will aid in the solution of these persistent social and economic problems. Mary G. Whiteside