COURTLAND
Del. Roslyn Tyler (D–75) presented the family of the late Russell C. Schools with a plaque honoring his 40 years of service on the Southampton County School Board at the board’s meeting on Monday.

“As a member of the State Education Committee, it is an honor to give such a special recognition this evening,” Tyler said. “When I first came to Southampton County, Mr. Schools was one of the first people I met. And he had the children at heart in everything he did.”

The resolution passed by the General Assembly commended him for his work on the school board, especially his work in the 1960s.

It states, “Schools oversaw the integration of the public schools in the county and successfully shepherded the students and staff through that transition.”

Schools, a long-time resident of Capron who passed away in January of this year, served as a member of the school board for more than 40 years and chaired the board for nearly 35 those of years.

“Most of us on the board can talk at length about something that we have learned from Mr. Schools during his 40 years of service to the county, so we are very grateful for the recognition,” said Dr. Deborah Goodwyn, chairwoman of the school board.

Schools also served as the executive secretary for the Virginia Peanut Growers Association. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Fay Clow Schools, his three children and their families.

The Capron Ruritan Club, of which Schools was a member, is creating a scholarship fund in his memory. Those interested in donating to the fund, are encouraged to contact Ernest Claude, secretary of the Ruritan, club at 434-658-4667.