Friday, April 15, 2016

Clean-Up Day at Cook Elementary

Article and photos by Jane Aves, volunteer with First Presbyterian Church

Although no classes were being held on Saturday, April 9, it was a busy day around Cook Elementary School. First Presbyterian Church again sponsored the annual clean-up day at the school.  Church members, Cook families and school staff members all pitched in to help the school in a variety of ways.

Indoors, creative volunteers opened up the Mother’s Day jewelry shop for the second year in a row. Church members donated costume jewelry to set up the store. This allows students to purchase Mother’s Day gifts with their good behavior “Cook Cash” or families to purchase gifts at very reasonable prices. It was a big hit and will continue to be popular with students in the days leading up to Mother’s Day.

Other work crews helped clean, sanitize and vacuum classrooms; reconstructed bulletin boards; and helped in the Media Center by processing new material, discarding old damaged books and re-shelving materials.

Outdoors, work teams groomed the school garden area, replanted spring produce and added a strawberry garden. Another crew worked on landscaping and beautification of the school grounds. The group held a lovely time of remembrance for our dear friend Bert Lantz, who passed away in October.  He was a dedicated volunteer and loved the students of Cook Elementary. Bert shared his passion for flowers and creating a beautiful landscape for the students and staff to enjoy.

Cook family member Michael Thomas said, “I try to come to all of these school events.  I enjoy bringing the kids to their school and think it is important. This is the third year I have helped with this clean-up day.”

In addition to Cook families, community volunteers and staff working together, it was a great opportunity for Paula Wilkins, the new principal of Cook Literacy Model School and her family to meet and interact with all of those gathered for the day.








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