North of where the Mississippi and Ohio rivers join, Century Elementary School in Ullin has come alive with enthusiastic teaching and motivated learning under the guidance of the school's principal, Robert Cross. Serving the school for 22 years, he has built the school, located in Illinois' poorest county, into a strong support center for both students and parents. An advocate of creative teaching methods, Mr. Cross urges his teachers to try new techniques and to take a greater role in school decision making. Mr. Cross is attentive to all his students, and he monitors their individual progress and regularly challenges them to expand their knowledge.
