I knew Ms. Whitehead as a colleague and later as my principal. When we taught together, Ms. Lyon arranged a trip for me, Ms. Whitehead, and Mrs. Madison to go to some nature center in the Smoky Mountains for a weekend adventure in the woods. Romping around in the woods and sleeping on the top bunk of a bunk bed were not my idea of a good time - then or now. We drove up after school on Friday and woke up Saturday morning ready to brave the wilderness - it was pouring rain and chilly. Of course, Ms. Lyon was ecstatic with appropriate gear; Whitehead, Madison, and I pulled on the borrowed rain ponchos, gloves, and athletic shoes that weren’t waterproof. We did whatever we were told to do, giving Lyon the side eye all day. I remember Whitehead, with her styled hair and makeup, in that rain poncho, wiping the water that dripped from the plastic poncho down her face, wishing she were anywhere other than looking at trees and walking around in the rain and mud. That was long ago - probably 25 years ago. Thinking about it now, I guess we did have “fun” (but we continued giving Lyon the side eye the entire trip - and for many years after).
Many may not know that Barbara Whitehead was principal at Howard when the school was renovated. She chose colors and made many design decisions during the remodel.
A hard-working woman and dedicated educator, she was greatly respected and appreciated during her career. I was proud to work with her as my principal.
Just wish I had told her that then instead of writing it now.
Thinking of her family and her grandchildren during this time: RIP.
Elisabeth Zachary
