Peachtree ES Principal the Key Speaker at Women's Meeting

It's always fun when a group of women get together - and the February meeting of the Peachtree Corners Women's Round Table was no exception.

There was plenty of good conversation - and good food at the February gathering held at La Nonna's Italian Restaurant in Peachtree Corners.

Dr. Beverly Smith, Peachtree Elementary School principal, was the speaker at the luncheon. Dr. Smith who began her teaching career at the elementary school, left to teach at several other Gwinnett schools before returning as its principal four years ago.

"I was excited about coming back," said Smith who recalled her early years teaching at Peachtree Elementary. "I remember when there was nothing out here," she said. "Jay Bird Alley was a gravel road."

The school, built in 1971, is one of the older schools in Gwinnett. The elementary school also has the distinction of being the only elementary school in the county to offer an International Baccalaureate Program.

The school has come a long way since its days on a gravel road in the middle of nowhere. "Today the school has nearly 1,700 students," said Smith, "with a very active PTA."

One of the PTA's projects is to raise funds to refurbish the decade-old asphalt running track. The PTA has raised over $9,000 of the needed $30,000 funds.

The school is also seeking ways to equip every fifth-grade student with an e-reader. "There are so many things going on," said Smith.

The school wraps up the academic year with a "Celebrate Peachtree" fair on the last Friday before school lets out for the summer, this year it's May 17.

"It's a wonderful time to stop by, there are performances, food, a petting zoo; Everyone in the community is invited. I hope you will get involved in Peachtree," she said.

The Peachtree Corners women's group formed last summer and meets six times a year and is open to any woman who lives or works in the city.

On Tuesday, the women decided by vote to rename the group - it's now called "The Women of Peachtree Corners." Judi Quigley submitted the name selection which was selected by a majority of the members.

The February 5 luncheon was hosted by Stephanie Sadd and Barbara J. Wind.

Along with a wide selection of home style Italian food served by Mario Zaino and his staff, door prizes were handed out to three lucky women.

Lorri Christopher donated a door prize of a Beach or Spa basket with towels, drinking cups, hat, and other beach amenities.

Colleen Walsh Fong donated a free subscription to her eMeals, a eBook cook book with simple and quick meals.

And Nanette Freiman gave the gift of chocolate.

For more information on the Women of Peachtree Corners, contact Pat Bruschini via email.