’Tis the season! D-E’s students are fulfilling the school’s core value of community with pre-winter-break donations to families in need.
In the Lower School, third graders have been embracing their program tradition, “Third Graders Making a Difference” (TGMD), for which they complete monthly service projects. As part of this effort, and with the help of the entire LS, third graders recently collected 225 pairs of pajamas to benefit the Office of Concern Food Pantry at Saint Cecilia in downtown Englewood.
“We are so happy that the pajamas will be distributed within the Englewood community,” says Third Grade Teacher Rachel Brainin, who helps facilitate TGMD projects.
To celebrate their achievement, all LS students got to wear their comfies for Pajama Day on Tuesday, Dec. 17.
“It makes you feel really good that you are able to help them celebrate the holidays”
Meanwhile, the MS hosted their annual Holiday Gift Drive, led by Elizabeth Traub, Organizational Lab Teacher and 8th Grade Advisor.
Advisory groups were given holiday wish lists from children under the protection of the New Jersey Department of Children and Families. And then students in Ms. Traub’s planning committee collected about 100 boxes filled with items—including winter clothing, board games, puzzles, art supplies, and gift cards—and wrapped any unwrapped gifts.
Committee members we spoke to said fulfilling the wish lists gave many of them a new perspective on asking for necessities versus anything too materialistic. They were eager to share their experiences:
“I really wish we could see their reactions when they open their gifts!” exclaimed Sabina A. ’29.
Brooke C. ’29 said they got to know the stories of the recipients, some of whom are in foster care. “We care so much about them.”
“It makes you feel really good that you are able to help them celebrate the holidays,” adds Faith M. ’30. “It feels good to give.”
