submitted by Brian Bushner
Students across the high school worked together to make the 2015 Christmas Wish the most successful ever. Members of the Phillip Leonard Chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS) collected $6,109.65 during their homeroom collection drive. The money is used to shop for clothing for 62 children in our community.
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Twenty NHS members spent a Saturday shopping for clothing. Afterward, the students picked up toys that were donated by community members at a holiday party. All who attended the party brought an unwrapped toy for children in our community.
After clothing was purchased and toys were chosen, the students returned to school and prepared the bags for delivery to classrooms. The teachers of the children receiving the gifts coordinate with the parents of the children who will receive them.
NHS advisor Karen Tommasino said, “What amazes me is how generous our community is, and how thoughtful our kids were while shopping for families. It was good to see – it really brought that holiday spirit to life, in a big way.”
Another gift included in the bags is a wooden toy that the high school Tech Club members made by hand. The wooden toys, with wheels on them, are shaped like ducks, cars, and tractors.
Jr.-Sr. High School principal Stacy Vadney said, “Helping our community takes a team effort. All of our students, teachers, and parents work hard to make sure everyone has the happiest holiday possible. We are always proud of the stupendous job they do.” She added, “We’re lucky to have such a giving and thoughtful community.”[/private]