After indoor recess sessions, Salem students are back outside with some new gear, courtesy of a partnership between the school and Tri-County United Way. From the school board to the community center, the school community comes together to ensure no student is left out.
“When a student is in need, the community unites together to support them. Through constant communication with our partners, we are able to make sure our students are aware of every opportunity they have, whether it is school-related or personal,” said Superintendent Julie Collier.
For the second year in a row, students in the district have received jackets, boots, mittens, and other winter gear through Operation Warm, a program run by Tri-County United Way. Donations are directed to the Historic Salem Courthouse (HSC) Community Center, where its Executive Director and Salem Board of Education member Marissa Perkins makes sure they find homes.
“I work with the school principals to identify what items are needed and for whom,” said Perkins. ”Without the proper gear, the cold affects attendance, participation in extracurricular activities and sports, and can cause feelings of isolation.”
During recess, each grade gathers together outside. Students laugh, play in the snow, and build snowmen with their friends so it is important they have appropriate cold weather clothes.
“We are in different classes with different teachers so coming together during recess is super fun. Recess gives us time to play with one another,” said fourth grader Maeve Donaldson.
Throughout the towns that comprise the school district, community members play different roles in supporting students. A shared commitment to the next generation has made students a priority when resources become available. When the HSC Community Center receives items from Operation Warm, Perkins and her team set aside those that match student requests.
“The partnership has been an amazing avenue to get donations distributed in the most meaningful and impactful ways. We are preparing our students for their futures while providing them everything they need to have the best experience in the present,” said Perkins.