A reception for Marion Key and Dan Colwell was held at the LaFayette Educational Center on December 13. Even though the weather conditions were misty and foggy, it did not keep invited guests, including many former, now retired employees, from attending to help honor Key and Colwell. Among them were Lynda Lambeth, former principal of Peachtree City Elementary; Dr. John DeCotis, former Fayette County Schools superintendent; Annie Masters, long-time secretary in the superintendent’s office; and Dr. Bob Todd, former school system administrator and board of education member.

Current school superintendent Dr. Joseph Barrow gave a tribute to the two honorees, stating how valuable their wisdom and historical knowledge of the school system has been to him and his administration, and he thanked them for their commitment and dedication to public education, and their service to the students and staff of Fayette County Public Schools. Dr. Barrow’s remarks were echoed by guests who took turns saying words of praise and appreciation for Key’s and Colwell’s contributions to the school system over the years.

Key has served over 20 years as a member of the Fayette County Board of Education. She has attended over 500 board meetings, and has helped oversee the construction of about two thirds of the schools in the county. Facilities Director Mike Satterfield presented her with a framed photo of Kedron Elementary, the first school construction that the two of them oversaw together.

“I remember Mrs. Key mopping floors the weekend before the first day of school. Back then everyone had to pitch in to help get a new school ready for students and teachers, but that was the first time I ever saw a board member mopping floors in a school,” Satterfield recalled.

Colwell, who had been a school superintendent in Clayton County, stepped in as interim superintendent of the school system in 2013. It was a tremulous time for school systems all over the nation as the Great Recession was taking its toll on school finances. He had the grave task of right-sizing the school system to get the budget back on solid ground, which included the closing of several schools. Following his stint as interim superintendent, a vacancy on the school board led to him being appointed to fill the remaining term of the post.

Both Key and Colwell are longtime residents of the county, having raised their families in Fayette, and educated their children through the Fayette County School System. Both say it has been an honor and privilege to serve the school system and residents of the county as members of the board of education.

The Sandy Creek High School orchestra provided holiday music as guests mingled and enjoyed light hors d’oeuvres, cake and punch.