By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
Union City, Tenn.–Tornado RISE students at Union City Schools carried on an annual tradition this week while also paying tribute to one of their own.
The group of CDC students made their annual trek to Discovery Park of America to help decorate a Christmas tree that will be on display at the 100,000 square-foot museum throughout the holiday season.
As part of the activity, members of the RISE group dedicated the tree to their memories of classmate Parker Vowell, who died unexpectedly in October.
The annual ritual was a favorite of Vowell’s and his classmates prominently displayed his favorite colors – purple and gold – via handmade ornaments for the tree. Several were Union City Schools-themed. Others showcased the Tornado football team and several included photos of Parker, his classmates, and teachers.
DPA provided a touching reading of “Twas the Night Before Christmas” and also made available Christmas-themed sugar cookies and punch to RISE students
“Parker was a shining light, every single day,” said Cristina King, one of several Tornado RISE teachers and educational assistants from both UC Middle School and Union City High School to accompany the group. “He had unconditional love for all people. He accepted people from all different walks of life.
“Parker was abundantly full of life and laughter. Anyone who was ever blessed enough to be in Parker’s life will forever hold a piece of him. I was so glad we were able to continue what was one of his favorite activities.”
Vowell’s mother, Paula, and his sister, Jai, were in attendance for the occasion.
Each ornament made by the students will be presented to his mother as keepsakes following the Christmas season.
“I’d like to thank our amazing school system and our Tornado RISE teachers and educational assistants for their love, compassion, and hard work — day-in and day-out,” King added. “Our administration is the absolute best and they and are support system are behind our Tornado RISE program in all that we do.
“I’d also like to thank Discovery Park of America for their partnership and Mr. Russell Orr for his enthusiasm every year in helping to make the Christmas season a little more magical for our precious Tornado RISE students.”