Moore nominated for Parent Volunteer Award

“Mary Moore is always an advocate for all children and an outstanding role model,” said Stacey Everson, director of special projects for the Fallbrook Union Elementary School District. “She is a guiding force within our educational community and we appreciate all the time, effort and dedication she has given so freely to our students, parents and staff.”

Mrs. Moore was recently nominated for the San Diego County Parent Volunteer Award, along with Leticia Bermudez, who could not be reached for comment. The award was won by a San Marcos resident, Jay Petric.

Mary Moore has played an essential role in our schools through her participation in the following:

• Fallbrook Union Elementary School District Gate Advisory Committee

• Potter Junior High School Gate Advisory Committee

• Fallbrook Union Elementary School District Coordinated Curriculum Council Chair

• Library Renovation Committee

• Safe Schools Advisory Committee

• School Site Council Potter Junior High School, elected member

Moore raised three children as a single parent. Her youngest is now in eighth grade at Potter Junior High and she also has a child at Fallbrook Union High School. Her eldest is in his twenties. Moore’s husband died suddenly from an undiagnosed condition, which was probably a form of cancer, when her youngest child was only ten months old and her other children were ages four and nine. She is thankful that her parents were willing to come to her aid during the difficult times.

Moore became involved in the educational system because she had always heard that children with involved parents have a greater chance for success. However, she quickly discovered that there were other children who needed her help as well. “I realized that for every child that had an involved parent there were twenty-five kids whose parents couldn’t be involved. It was at that time when I realized that I needed to be an advocate for all the children, not just my own.”

One of the greatest joys Moore experiences is seeing kids she has known since kindergarten pass through the graduation line. “It’s nice to know that I’ve made a difference in their lives,” she said.

She began her involvement at the Maie Ellis Elementary School library, where she enjoyed the daily contact with the kids. “Later I began to attend district meetings,” she recalled, “but working with the kids is more rewarding.”

It is obvious that Moore places a great deal of value on education. “It was always an expectation at my home,” she explained. Both of her parents are college educated and also encouraged Moore to attend college. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Chapman College in Orange County.

“For many of these kids, education is going to be their escape from poverty,” noted Moore. “It gives me a feeling of satisfaction to help these children.”

With her winning smile and love for Fallbrook’s students it is clear that Mary Moore will continue to be one involved mom making a difference in the lives of children she may never meet.