A SEASON OF GIVING AT GENOA-KINGSTON SCHOOLS
“Life is a gift, and it offers us the privilege, opportunity, and responsibility to give something back by becoming more.” ~ Anthony Robbins. Giving back to the community is not just a slogan or a quote that we read from someone famous at Genoa-Kingston #424 Schools. The students and staff are working together to help others during this holiday season. As you probably are aware, they have organized numerous fundraising and collection events at all of our schools. Our Mission Statement at Genoa-Kingston states that we are committed to preparing our students to excel and contribute to their community. There are times that the lesson is not taught within the walls of the classroom but rather outside the brick and mortar, taught throughout the two communities that make up Genoa-Kingston. As educators we take the responsibility of teaching lessons that will impact our students for a life-time. I am very proud of our students and staff as the holiday season nears and the fruits of their labor begin to improve the lives of those less fortunate. We are presently involved in the following community service projects.
Collection of non-perishable items for the local food pantry has been a project for all of our schools, particularly our elementary schools. The FFA collects the donated items from our schools and delivers them to the food pantry. This is a project for the entire school year and not just for the holiday season.
High school students actively support the local animal shelter with donations of food, health care items and toys.
U.S. Troops stationed in the Middle East are remembered by the FFA. The students send holiday greeting cards to let the soldiers know that they are appreciated.
The United States Marines program, “Toys for Tots” has the wonderful support of our students, staff and families at the middle school. The middle school “COGS” was recognized by the Marine Corps in 2009, for the highest donation total in DeKalb County. The students and staff are hoping to achieve that honor again this year.
A special “Giving Tree” in the middle school is adorned with donations of hats, gloves and scarves placed on it during the month of December. Needy children will be the recipients of these items.
It is our hope that the lessons of giving to help others will be instilled in our students so that it becomes a part of their adult lives.
Eleanor Roosevelt stated, “Since you get more joy out of giving joy to others, you should put a good deal of thought into the happiness that you are able to give.”
If you wish to participate or help with any of these worthy causes, please contact one of the Genoa-Kingston schools. Hopefully, each of you will reach out to help another less fortunate person.