Students at Manning Early Childhood Center (MECC) in the Clarendon County School District (CCSD) showed their love and appreciation for Mrs. Marie Land in the sweetest way on May 21st. They surprised her with a beautiful bench dedicated in her honor, which will be placed in the school garden.
Mrs. Land has been a guiding force for the students, helping them plant, tend, and cultivate their raised garden beds. The bench is a heartfelt thank you for all her dedication and hard work.
Suzanne Barr, Communications & Community Relations Specialist for CCSD, expressed the joy of the occasion. “Thank you for sharing this wonderful surprise birthday party. What a fabulous day for Mrs. Land, her friends, family, MECC staff, and students,” Barr said.
Frankie Geddings highlighted the significance of the gesture. “A special gift for someone that gives so much of her time and talent to others,” Geddings said.
Mrs. Land’s granddaughter, Bitsy Land, shared her grandmother’s gratitude. “Being in the garden with the MECC kids is the highlight of her week each week. She wants me to thank all of you and to let y’all know that she is not retiring from the garden. She really appreciates the sweet gift from her garden students, the teachers, and the school,” she relayed.
The bench stands as a testament to Mrs. Land’s enduring impact on the MECC community, reflecting the affection and respect of the students and staff she has touched through her gardening guidance.
