Health & Fitness
Mural Memorializes Longtime Lemon Avenue School Volunteer Joanne Smith
Devoted aide who would have turned 80 last week; she was at the school nearly every day for almost 40 years.
On Thursday, Jan. 26, students, parents, and staff gathered to remember longtime Lemon Avenue Elementary volunteer Joanne Smith by dedicating a mural in her honor.
Mrs. Smith was devoted to the school and was there nearly every day for almost 40 years. Her daughter, Beth Ferguson, a teacher at Lemon Avenue, worked with the principal and PTA to raise funds for a special mural to celebrate Mrs. Smith’s commitment to helping children.
La Mesa Spring Valley School District teacher and artist Jon Hayman was commissioned to create the mural. Elaine Arapostathis (known as Mrs. A) a friend of Joanne’s and mother of district teacher and La Mesa Councilman Mark Arapostathis (Dr. A), rehearsed a student choir to perform the Peace Song at the ceremony.
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The event was held on what would have been Mrs. Smith’s 80th birthday.
Beth Ferguson said: “My mom's dedication to Lemon Avenue and her community has become a legacy. She started volunteering at Lemon Avenue when I started kindergarten in 1974, and never left. Her commitment inspired me to become a teacher and eventually teach at Lemon Avenue. The legacy will continue next year when my daughter Joyce will attend kindergarten.”
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Mrs. Ferguson also noted that she literally lived across the street from the school and her mom would stand at a white picket fence and wave to her and all the other children as they walked to class.
Both Jennifer Whitney, a former Lemon Avenue teacher, and Mrs. A shared that although Mrs. Smith was initially reluctant to learn computers, she devoted herself to the task and eventually became a technology wizard at the school. Mrs. A also noted that while Joanne would never hesitate to speak her mind, she always did so with courtesy and respect to all.
Mr. Hayman, a teacher at Rolando Elementary, explained that the mural was inspired by Picasso’s Dance of Youth and is a visual representation of the school district’s Peace Builder program. He sought to create a very kid friendly artwork and one that would both honor Mrs. Smith’s selfless service and encourage the Peace Builder culture to thrive.
Principal Jennifer Luibel said: ”This mural is an asset to both the school and Lemon Avenue community. It is a wonderful tribute to Joanne’s service and love for children.”
PTA President Gayle Neville noted how impressed she was with Joanne’s willingness to help wherever and whenever she was needed at school. She said the Lemon Ave PTA was excited and honored to be able to assist with fundraising for this mural and supporting the dedication event.
