On Wednesday, March 1, Byron-Bergen Elementary School students and staff gathered to gift over 600 items to the Gillam Grant Community Center. This year’s donation day appropriately coincided with Superhero Dress Up Day, highlighting the superpower of community service. Each year for the 100th day of school, students in grades UPK through five are challenged to collect 100 items to donate to a local charitable or community service organization. This year, four grade levels surpassed their goal and the other three grade levels combined to collect over 100 items for a grand total of 618 items.
“The Gillam Grant is a large supporter of the Byron-Bergen community, providing programming from toddlers to senior citizens. It was important that we give back to them with this project,” said kindergarten teacher and project organizer Ayn Gardner. “We are fortunate that our District promotes community service through this annual project. One of our District beliefs is that our students will demonstrate respect for themselves and others and the world around them. Helping others is just one way we can promote that belief.”
Gillam Grant Executive Director Peggy Welsh was present to accept the donations which included napkins, cups, tablecloths, paper towels, storage bags, and spray cleaner. “Gillam Grant runs lots of programs for everybody, young and older,” said Welsh. “We will use these items for day programs, special activities, and before and after school care. These items really benefit you and our community. Thank you for all your hard work and generosity.”
During the assembly, one student from each grade level, dressed in their super-finest, presented Welsh with one item. The remaining items were delivered to the Gillam Grant Center.
“I’d like to thank Mrs. Gardener for the big role she takes on organizing this every year,” said Social Emotional Learning Coordinator Megan Wahl. The assembly concluded with a discussion about integrity and each student knowing that they help make a super-difference in their community every day.
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