"Be the change you wish to see in the world." ~Ghandi

Nobody can do everything, but everyone can do something
~Author Unknown

We began our new reading theme this week entitled, "Person to Person". There was a powerful quote at the beginning of the unit that sparked discussions among our classmates about discovering strength in helping others. The students shared stories about their own experiences when he/she assisted someone, and a few students even told about a time they were helped by someone. The students emphasized that it is beneficial to help others when you can because we never know when we might need help ourselves. In other words, "put yourself in other people shoes"---I preach this motto since the first day of school!

Throughout the next few weeks, we will read stories that focus around relationships with others, focusing on volunteerism. These lessons came at the perfect time for our class. Even though most of society would question our young people's ability to express empathy and desire to help others, individuals would have challenged this opinion with my fifth graders. I was amazed at the responses received when we brainstormed ways to make a difference in our community, county, state, nation, and world. After creating a circle map entitled volunteerism, our inside circle was filled with interesting ideas of making an impact on the world: volunteer firefighters, soup kitchens, tutoring a classmate in math, Red Cross, Relay for Life, Habitat for Humanity, Humane Society, food pantry...the list goes on and on!

We decided as a class we wanted to start projects as soon as possible within our community. Page Street is actively involved with Relay for Life trying to find a cure for cancer, and we have already exceeded our goal from last year (over raising $15,000)! I wanted the students to become more familiar with another charitable organization that has a direct influence on our families in Montgomery County when a disaster occurs, which is the American Red Cross. I didn't realize how influential this organization was until representatives came to speak with our staff last year regarding the numerous fires some of our students' families had encountered. These ladies shared that the Red Cross provides the families instant shelter, food, and clothing to ensure they are cared for during the most difficult part of the disaster. At that moment, I wanted to become more informed AND involved with the Red Cross. Marlene Dunn, the director of the Montgomery County Chapter of the Red Cross, came to speak with our class about the possibilities for students to assist with this organization. Ms. Dunn shared the history of the Red Cross and what the organization has done in the nation and world. She concluded by telling us the importance of the Red Cross here in Montgomery County. The students were eager to sign up for every project! We decided to help make kids packages and fleece blankets for children who had lost everything in a fire. They also wanted to take part in the Red Cross month (March) by selling the red crosses for $1. Montgomery County used $14,000 last year in assistance, and their goal this year is to receive $15,000. The kids even told me they would give blood, even though they were not old enough yet.


After the decision to help with the Red Cross, the students were anxious to find other opportunities to make a difference. It makes my heart proud when I see ten and eleven year olds wanting to volunteer! Therefore, I have been busy trying to plan these experiences. We are starting this month by going to the food pantry February 14th and 28th from 8:00-10:00am at First Baptist Church.

"How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world." ~Anne Frank