Why Are So Many Charlottesville Middle Students Wearing Ties on Thursdays?
Students at Charlottesville Middle School were especially well-dressed on Thursday, November 6, participating in the tradition known as "Tie It Up Thursday."
Origins of the Tradition
Principal Rodney Jordan, whose birthday coincided with this Thursday's event, started the initiative years ago. It began in the classroom when he and another teacher formed a leadership group.
“We wanted to do something to empower students... and so we started it then as a leadership club,” Jordan explained. “It’s something I wanted to do as the principal here.”
Growth of the Movement
Last year, teachers embraced the tradition, but few students participated until two eighth graders, Warren Hall and Oakley Lyman, arrived one day dressed in full business attire, including ties.
Since then, "Tie It Up Thursday" has gained popularity, with many students wearing ties of different colors and patterns to promote confidence and peer leadership.
“I challenged them to talk to their peers, I challenged them to get other students involved,” Jordan said. “It’s our thing.”
Future Plans
Warren Hall is even considering continuing the tie-wearing tradition at Charlottesville High School.
Author’s summary: The "Tie It Up Thursday" tradition, started by Principal Jordan to empower students, has grown through student leadership into a popular weekly event promoting confidence and community spirit.