Derek Fountain encourages students to do their best

Third grade students at the Holly Springs Primary School were treated to a pep rally in advance of state tests the next day, April 20.

Holly Springs Ward 1 alderman Bernita Fountain and her son Derek, a former member of the basketball team at Mississippi State University, were invited to give inspirational words to students in kindergarten, and grades one through three, held in the school gym.

Since the pep rally, Derek announced he is transferring to Louisiana State University to play basketball.

“Third graders are taking the test Tuesday and we are all here to give and to show encouragement and cheering you on, this is for you,” said principal Sherna Jones.

Alderman Fountain, a deputy sheriff, provided some tips for youngsters.

“It’s a big deal staying focused, to be on your game,” she said. “To be successful, stay focused and try to do your very best tomorrow.”

The alderman introduced her son who recently transferred to LSU.

“He used to sit here where you sit,” she said. “Mrs. Beard (Derek’s teacher) is a great part of making him what he is today. Hats off to the staff.”

Derek told students he came to the pep rally to encourage students to do their best.

“No matter what you do in life you are going to have to go to college,” he said. “Go home and play and know you have to do your homework first.”

“You can never soar with the eagles by hanging with the chickens,” the alderman said. “As we begin summer vacation there are rules in the city. Summer is about having fun or getting in trouble. Be mindful and have a great summer.

“You have to be a student first in order to play college basketball,” she said. Derek loves Holly Springs and Holly Springs loves Derek.”

The Mississippi State athlete took questions.

He is six feet nine and is majoring in kinesiology. His favorite subject in school was language arts. He is now 19 years of age, he said.