WISD Operation First Day of School & Partners in Education

Posted by John Hamilton on Jul 21, 2016

Waxahachie Independent School District Public Relations Director Jennie Bridges described Operation First Day of School and Partners in Education to the Rotary Club. The club participates heavily in the programs so more background was interesting to Rotarians.

There are about 8,000 students in the Waxahachie school system and half are economically disadvantaged. That means that they won’t be able to afford all of the things necessary to start the new school year. Many companies, organizations and individuals have stepped in to help fill the void. After all, there is a direct correlation between money, as represented by supplies, and school performance.

Waxahachie CARE, the Salvation Army, Citizens National Bank and many others work to provide everything needed to start school. This includes backpacks, clothing, equipment and everything else. Each child can chose his or her own supplies so he or she can pick the color or pattern they like. This personalizes the items and gives the child real ownership and pride.

The Rotary Club holds a book drive and each child is given a book of his or her choice to take home and read. The club also provides bottled water to those waiting in line.

You can help by making a financial donation, donating supplies, volunteering during the event or donating to United Way of West Ellis County. It costs about $40 per student for all supplies necessary to begin school.

Melissa Cobb, WISD Director of Partnership in Education explained some of the other programs held during the year. These programs involve the community with students. Grandparents and Grandfriends Day pairs relatives and students for lunch, reading and story telling. Drop Everything and Read or DEAR Day brings community members and higher school students to grade schools to read to the students. 2017 will be the 20th Anniversary of D.E.A.R. Day.

Other programs for which volunteers are sought are mentoring, guest speakers, tutors and Lighthouse for Learning programs.

For more information about Waxahachie Independent School District programs contact Ms. Bridges or Cobb at 972-923-4631. E-mail addresses are jbridges@wisd.org or mcobb@wisd.org.

For more information about the Rotary Club of Waxahachie where we believe in Service Above Self and doing things as a club we cannot do alone, visit the club web site at www.waxahachierotary.org