Mr. Boston was born on Sept. 3, 1916 and raised in Waleska, GA along with his brother, Ford and sister, Martha. A lifelong resident of Cherokee County, Mr. Boston graduated with his sweetheart Melinda Lewis from Reinhardt College in 1935 and then graduated from the University of GA (Go Bulldogs, Ruff, Ruff, Ruff!) He answered the call to serve his country, serving in the Army Air Corp in World War II. Using his teaching degree, he taught at various schools in Cherokee County including New Bethel, Big Springs and Oak Grove. He also taught agriculture at Cherokee HS. He served as an advisor of the Future Farmers of America, was basketball coach and was later Principal. From 1959-1976, Mr. Boston served as Superintendent of Schools for Cherokee County. During this time as Superintendent, he started the public school bus system and was Superintendent of Schools during the integration in the late 1960’s.
He married his college sweetheart Melinda and they had 5 children (Billy, Susan, Judy, Kay and Sheryl Ann). Many members of Mr. and Mrs. Kleven Boston’s Family still live in Cherokee County and attend schools in Cherokee County.
Mrs. Boston said that Mr. Boston was known for “telling it like it was, even if the truth hurt”. Having our school named after a person of such honesty is very appropriate as we all strive to “Show Respect and Dignity to Others” at Boston ES.
Written by Letitia Cline
Sept. 2009