For the 13th year in a row, the Rotary Club of West Chester has donated school supplies to the West Chester Area School District (WCASD), this year joined by two other area clubs.. “One of the club goals on our strategic plan this year is to mesh with other clubs often,” said Kyle Rheiner, president of the Rotary Club of West Chester.Over 60 book bags/back packs plus numerous school supplies were donated from a list of needs gathered by WCASD caseworkers, and will be dispersed among the 17 schools in the district. The caseworkers work with kindergarten through 12th graders, many of whom would otherwise begin the school year at an educational disadvantage.
“This activity fits right in with Rotary International’s theme for September, Education and Basic Literacy Month, one of Rotary’s seven areas of focus,” said Rheiner.
“Rotary clubs around the world are focusing on service efforts and donations to educational projects. Club members read to elementary–aged children in schools, tutor in literacy and GED programs, and help the new in our country to learn English in community language programs. Some Rotarians help libraries with story hours. Education is the key to building confidence, attaining economic mobility and peace,” added Janice Biros, governor of District 7450.
“We would like to extend a huge thank you to the Rotary Club of West Chester, Greater West Chester Sunrise Rotary, and Rotary Passport Club of West Chester for joining forces to support our WCASD students,” according to school district personnel. “These incredible community partners donated a wide variety of back –to-school essentials, helping ensure that students have the tools and confidence to start the year strong! Rotarians generosity and commitment to giving back make a meaningful difference for our students and families.”
PHOTO CUTLINE:
From left: Elizabeth Ball, Home and School Visitor, Melissa Kleiman, Director of Pupil Services, Dr. Kalia Reynolds, Deputy Superintendent, John Scully, Director of Business Affairs, Susan Carty, president of Greater Sunrise Rotary Club of West Chester, Kyle Rheiner, president of the Rotary Club of West Chester, Dr. David Christopher, Superintendent of Schools, Ellie Garduno, Home and School Visitor, Patricia Alston, Social Work Coordinator, Carole Truskett, secretary to Assistant Director of Pupil Services. Also in attendance (not pictured) Nick Polcini, president of the Rotary Passport Club of West Chester.