Kate Duncan Smith DAR School

Gary W. Cox
 Chairman of the Board of Trustees

"Train Up a child in the way he should go,
And when he is old, he will not depart from it."
Proverbs 22:6

The beginning of Kate Duncan Smith DAR School started with a resolution submitted by Mrs. William Harvey at the eighth Alabama State Conference in Opelika on December 6, 1906, during Mrs. J. Morgan Smith's last year as State Regent. The resolution read, "Whereas, the honor and welfare of our country demand the children shall be trained in the knowledge and practice of pure and noble citizenship; and whereas, this matter is not adequately provided for in the present curriculum of the schools; therefore, be it resolved that this Conference adopt measures to insure greater Patriotic Education throughout the state." Resolution adopted.

It has been wonderful to see how God has provided the means and the determination to cause this school to grow and flourish throughout the past eighty-three years. We have continued to provide a patriotic education steeped in the ideals that the Daughters of the American Revolution hold dear. These ideals have not been taught, nor can they be taught, in the curriculum of most schools in the United States.

As a member of the Hunt's Spring Chapter, DAR, I was encouraged to visit the school the first year I became a member. That was 31 years ago and I can still remember how endeared I became to DAR because we supported a school such as this. I would love for every member of DAR to have the chance to visit KDS and see firsthand this unique learning environment where excellent principals and teachers instill values and character-building traits along with great learning skills for students from kindergarten through high school. The students appreciate DAR because they realize what a fine school you have provided for them and they thrive on your love and devotion to the school and to each student. You do make a difference.

If we can better the life of one child, we have done a great deed. We have the opportunity to help 1300 students each year become patriotic citizens who shape our world. You truly do make a difference in the lives of these young people. Thank you for your wonderful generosity to KDS throughout the years with your love, support, and your prayers. Your giving enables us to continue to provide an exceptional education that was begun though far-sighted and wise women over 83 years ago.

Thank you and God bless each of you.

Gary W. Cox