On behalf of WEN, we thank all event participants, sponsors, judges, and guests for a successful event. Feedback received from our guests, participants, teachers, and parents, was that of praise, gratitude, etc. Don Betchel, Peabody Middle School Principal has this to say to WEN and our community partners who join us in making this event a success, “The event will be a wonderful reference point in our (students’ and teachers’) lives. You made a huge difference”. After the event, some of the teachers informed us that many students who were not among those appreciated approached them, asking how they could participate in next year’s Exploratory Examplaries Honorary banquet. One of the parents we met the morning of the event in the community even volunteered to come help and she was there as she promised up on to the end of the event helping to serve the students and the help from WEN’s sponsors, the International Military Students made a huge difference. WEN is humbled and honored that we helped to plant the seed of empowerment in the lives of Peabody Middle School students. This goes to show that there’s a fire in every child and person and given the right nurturing, the sky’s the limit. Together we can take Tri-City schools to the community and make that village happen for students in these schools.
Below are some of the collaborative moments worth mentioning:
Upon our arrival at the event location on May 25th and as we offloaded and settled in to begin decorating the hall, a group of smiley faced students walked into the room and introduced themselves as our helpers. This was shortly after the lunch period and after the custodians had vacuumed and cleared the tables. They indicated they were instructed by their teachers, Dr. Mbagwu to help us. They were very attentive and enthusiastic to take instructions. One of the students announced that she had helped her community on a number of occasions and understood exactly what was as of them. She swiftly led her fellow students to work as they quickly began covering the chairs and tables with the table and chair covers we gave them. Shortly after, a new group of equally happy students arrived with their teacher, Ms. Graves. Quickly they began covering the room with their art works. They so happy to help as they talked about how they looked forward to the evening.
