Another reminder of Rosa Parks’ legacy to be featured in Olney school –

by Terri Hogan
Senior Staff Writer
Montgomery County Board of Education member Jeanette E. Dixon told students and staff at Rosa Parks Middle School that the civil rights icon for whom the Olney school is named paved the way for her to serve on the school board.
Dixon (At-large) presented a framed first day cover of the Rosa Parks U.S. Postage Stamp to the school on Feb. 2.
A first day cover is an envelope or card bearing a stamp that is cancelled on the day the stamp is initially placed on sale by the postal service.
During the “Dolphin TV” morning announcement program, Dixon said she was honored to present the cover to the school’s “great principal” and to all the students.
“Hopefully, they will always remember her and her quiet dignity and that an ordinary person can do extraordinary things,” she said.
Principal Jewel Sanders said the first cover will be placed in the school’s display case as a reminder of who Rosa Parks was and why it is important to embody all of the great qualities that she possessed.
“This is another way to remember Rosa Parks as a hero and a trailblazer,” she said. “She made it possible for so many to go above and beyond and to reach for the stars.”
The stamp was issued on Feb. 4, 2013, which was Rosa Parks’ 100th birthday.
Dixon told the students she was so inspired by Rosa Parks that she went to see her coffin and pay her respect at the U.S. Capitol when she died.
The first day cover came from Dixon’s personal collection. She also collects postcards and autographed memorabilia.
“I find it inspiring,” she said.