A Tribute to Martha Wilson
Good Evening CCSD Family,
I am deeply saddened to announce the passing of our Advisory Board President, Queen, Advocate and Mentor--Mrs. Martha F. Wilson.
I met Mrs. Wilson when I was a freshman at Camden High School in 1983. She was a Cheer Mom, and although she wasn’t my natural mother, she took me and so many other young ladies under her wing. Whether it was making sure we were presentable or making sure we had “back-up” in the stands (and food), she always seemed to be right there watching. Her smile was both reassuring and infectious. We all wanted to be like Mrs. Wilson when we grew up--glamorous, kind and intelligent.
Little did I know that our paths would cross again--many years after I graduated from Camden High School in 1987. Little did I know she would still be cheering me on from the stands. Instead of cheering me from the stands at football and basketball games, she would later cheer me on from her seat as Board Member, Advisory Board Member and Advisory Board President.
Ironically, today also marks the one year anniversary of my appointment as State Superintendent of the Camden City School District. When I was sworn in as Acting Superintendent in July of 2018, Mrs. Wilson was right there sitting with my family as proud as she could be. When I was sworn in as State Superintendent, she was right there with the biggest smile on her face--supporting and reassuring me that I was the right person for the job.
I will cherish the mentorship, advice, guidance and laughter we shared. Mrs. Wilson leaves behind a legacy of commitment to the students of Camden City and one of fierce advocacy for authentic parental engagement.
As an immediate way to honor her legacy, beginning Monday, April, 20, 2020, all flags in the Camden City School District will be flown at half-staff.
Additionally, because of current COVID-19 restrictions regarding funerals, we will plan a memorial service in collaboration with the City of Camden after the Governor’s Executive Orders have been lifted. As a way to show support to the family and to let them know we as a district family care, please share a message here. These messages will be delivered to Sheriff Gilbert “Whip” Wilson and family.
Submitted in Tribute,
Superintendent McCombs