On May 3, Liberty Elementary students, staff, PTO and Rusty’s family members gathered to honor student Rusty Schultz. Sadly, Rusty passed away at the age of 7 this past March 19 after battling cancer. The day of the dedication marked Rusty's eighth birthday. The PTO purchased a yellow magnolia tree that was planted near the school's playground acknowledging the gold color that signifies childhood cancer awareness.
In addition, Rusty was a fan of baseball, so a plaque shaped in a baseball home plate bearing his photo has been permanently placed near the tree. His parents also donated three of his favorite Russell the Sheep books by Rob Scotton to the Liberty Elementary Media Center. Top photo, Principal Christy Jarka makes a presentation to all at the dedication. Bottom photo, Rusty’s parents Adam and Mimi Schultz and his sister Rylee pictured with the donated books, the plaque and tree.
