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http://www.wave3.com/Global/story.asp?S=13...58&nav=0RZFHKCi

School Principal Keeps Eye On Students From

By Craig Hoffman

(CECILIA, Ky., August 6th, 2003, 5:30 p.m.) -- A few weeks ago, Ron Ortiz got word he would be in charge of Central Hardin High School this year. The 39-year-old educator found out about his new job while serving with the U.S. Army Reserve in Iraq. And as our Craig Hoffman learned, even though Ortiz is thousands of miles away, he plans to keep a close watch on his students.

A packed lunch room brought students together to talk about summer fun. Some of the 1,500 Central Hardin High students learned bus routes and finalized course schedules. It was opening day, but this time it was very special.

It started out in a normal way, with Assistant Football Coach and Interim Principal Chris Reed welcoming everyone. Then, minutes after Reed reminded students he's just filling in for Ortiz, the phone rang.

The person calling was none other than Ron Ortiz, calling all the way from southern Iraq to give students a pep talk. For about 10 minutes, Ortiz encouraged students to study hard and get involved.

Ortiz has been in Iraq since March. Students and faculty are proud of both Ortiz and Coach Reed for helping out. "Is kind of weird," said student Daryl Williams, because he's over there in Iraq and you got a football coach and principal -- it's kind of different."

Lindsey Burress says Coach Reed "is doing good at stepping in, it's all going to be handled -- we just can't wait until he (Ortiz) gets back."

Kim Cardin, who teaches at Central, is confident Reed will do a good job filling in for Ortiz until he returns. "I don't think we will have any problems," she said. "I think it will be a smooth transition -- he'll come back, walk in and continue on."

The entire Ortiz family took part in Wednesday's big event. And, like the students, they want him home soon.