A small gesture can mean the world to a child at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. A group of sixth graders is hoping to share a little joy to those at the hospital this holiday season.
Kids at Enka Intermediate School were tasked with a challenge in their Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) class to create something that would brighten a child’s day at St. Jude. Students worked in groups to make homemade blankets, Plinko games, puppets, a foosball table and cards. The entire school did a Halloween candy gram sale and a bake sale that raised $834 for the children’s hospital.
“I am incredibly proud of my students' hard work and diligence,” said STEM teacher Thomas Campbell. “They faced numerous challenges with building their designs along with being limited on when and what they could sell here at school. They persevered and found ways to make modifications along the way.”
Excitement bounced around the classroom as students worked together to complete their projects. Many love the idea that they have the opportunity to help someone else.
“This project was important to me, because I want to help the children that have been at the hospital a long time,” said sixth grader Lillian Serzan. “I feel happy knowing that what we've done might bring joy to another kid.”
Principal Emily Cox is amazed with how the school and community came together to see this project through.
“Seeing the students get excited about helping others in need is extremely rewarding,” she said. “In doing this type of work, our students see that they can make a positive difference in the lives of others. It's empowering for them, and that is one of our main goals as a school community, to help our students feel like they have the power to make positive change in our world!”
