Clyde McGrady, principal of Staley Middle School in Americus, took his mother's advice, forgoing a career in the military for one in education. His love for children and constant push for excellence marched his school to the 1990 National School of Excellence list. A buddy system he instituted paired at-risk children with classroom teachers, demonstrating special care to those who need it most. The Brookdale Heights Young People's Association named him 1978 Person of the Year, and in 1985 he was honored by Boy Scout Troop 26 with the J. E. Brown Award for Distinguished Education.
