Montgomery wins Citizen of Year award

Commerce High School principal Virdie Montgomery is a businessman, but not in the normal sense of the word. He is a businessman because he makes the high school experience of students his business.

"They know when they come here the expectations are high, but we want to create memories for these high school kids," Montgomery said.

Montgomery, who came to Commerce two years ago after serving as an assistant principal at Wylie High School, said he wants to create an environment in his school that is rewarding and where relationships are emphasized.

The biggest change he has brought CHS has been through the avenue of the Rachel's Challenge program.

Montgomery was first put in charge of it at Wylie, and, because of the success of the nationally recognized program, brought it with him to Commerce.

"It had a major impact on that campus," he said. "Whenever we brought that in, it just made all the kids aware of each other and kindness."

Rachel's Challenge began, not only as a tribute to Rachel Scott, the first victim in the 1999 shooting at Columbine High School, but also as a way to promote tolerance and compassion in schools.

The evidence of the Friends of Rachel Club and its commitment to kindness can be seen strung across the CHS cafeteria. When a high school student recognizes another's nice gesture a link is draped around the ceiling. Now, the chain link wraps around three-fourths of the cafeteria, but Montgomery said the school's goal is to see the link make a complete circle.

According to Jodee Anderson, who works closely with Montgomery as the school's library media specialist, there has been a visible change in the students since his arrival.

"They care more about each other," she said. "It's really neat. It's thinking of others."

Montgomery has also noticed a change in many students' attitudes toward volunteering.

"I've got kids that will pick up the cafeteria…people like that, they just stand out," he said. "You don't normally see that in kids."

Another way students can volunteer is through a program called Sassy Saturdays. In these sessions, older students partner with Commerce Elementary students to raise money for Relay for Life. The girls will play games and do each other's hair, while typically the boys learn football moves and hang out.

"It's made our kids aware of each other and the need for service in society," Montgomery said. "We just feel like we have a very positive place."

At this year's 101st annual Commerce Chamber of Commerce Banquet, Montgomery was named Citizen of the Year. He said the moment was made even more special because his family was there to witness it.

"I was overwhelmed and awed that I would even be considered," he said. "It kind of validates what you do and the passion that you have and pour into the job. It touches your heart and warms you up."

Anderson agreed with the Chamber's selection. She said her experience working with the principal has been excellent and wonderful.

"I don't want him to ever leave," she said. "His main purpose is to be here for the kids. He's all about kids and what's best for them."

In a time where many school administrators have a strict policy against cell phones, Montgomery allows students in good standing with the school to use their phones during passing periods and lunch. The Tiger Trust Card is a badge that identifies students with extra privileges.

"It's a positive incentive…and there's the pride issue too," he said.

Montgomery is also using the Internet to boost morale with Tiger Thoughts. Students get the chance to voice their opinions on funny or serious questions through videos posted on YouTube.

"It builds self-esteem," he said. "They learn to talk and respond to questions, which I think is an important life building skill."

To view the student sound-offs, go to YouTube and search for CHS Tiger Thoughts.