Sept. 5, 2008 — Many St. John elementary school students are going back to school with some extra school supplies in their backpacks. This week, the Rotary Club donated planners to fourth, fifth and sixth graders at Julius E. Sprauve School, Guy Benjamin School and the Gifft Hill School.
And next week, Rotary members will deliver a supply kit to all first and second graders at the island's public and private schools. The kits include a colored folder, construction paper, a marker, a pencil, a glue stick, and a book that's appropriate to their grade. Third graders will get dictionaries.
"The children are our future. It's so rewarding to be able to do something for the kid," Rotary Club President B.J. Harris explained.
The donations provide extras the Education Department can't afford to buy. And Harris said that since some parents can't pay for basic school supplies, it ensures that all students start out on a level playing field.
The planners went to 150 children, but Harris didn't know the total number of students receiving supply kits. She also didn't know what the cost will be to the Rotary Club for both sets of donations.
The planners, a youthful version of those used by adults, help the students get organized, Harris said.
"It's an all around fabulous tool," Harris said.
In addition to calendars, the planners have places for the parent or guardian to sign off.
"It's a way to engage parents in their children's education," she said.
The planners also come with messages like "don't smoke" and "you can do anything."
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