A Conversation With MLWGS Own Mr. Irvin Charles

Maggie Walker Alumnus and MLWGS Head of Security Shares His Thoughts

First of all, how did you spend your snow days?

Actually, it was a good chance for me to take some time and do some charity. I visited my aunts, my father, and made sure that everyone’s walkways were clear. I spent some time with my family and got to make some snowmen with my daughter. She loved it. This was her first snow.

What do you think about having to come in on our March 13th holiday?

You’ve gotta do what you gotta do, and I trust that the administration has done what is best for your academic program.

Mr. Tharp said something about MLWGS Security instituting “shock and awe” and having the full staff present some days ?

Every once and a while we like to be proactive and have a full showing as a deterrent. Especially with this warm weather making everyone a little more active, we want to make sure that we don’t have any incidents.

There have been several muggings reported around the VCU area as well as a shooting at Monroe Park, what is your advice?

I am logged on with the state’s database, and everyday I get updates on crimes in our area. When I get reports like this, I like to give students warnings and remind them that they need to be mindful of their surroundings, especially those students who like to stay back for activities and who go to places like Kroger to get food. They need to remember to be aware of what’s going on around them.

There was some talk about demoting MLWGS to a different athletic league - one with smaller sized schools. That isn’t going to happen, but what are your thoughts on the competitiveness issue?

Well, you know that those schools that are the same size as we are usually pretty far away. That would mean for longer travel times. But let me tell you something, I think it has been good for us to be able to challenge these bigger schools. When we someday get to the point where we’re winning a lot, the word will get out, and Maggie Walker might start to draw some top athletes.

Acceptance letters are being sent out, and shadow days will be here in a few weeks…

My advice for students and parents who are considering this school is that they should take the time to come by and visit. I’m certain that once they visit they’ll make the right decision. I don’t know of anyone who has still been apprehensive after spending time here. We have a great school here with excellent teachers and staff.

Q&A with Danny Yates on March 10, 2009.

Have a question for Mr. Charles? E-mail us at mlwgs.jabberwock@gmail.com