Black History Month at Eastview Elementary Teacher applauds philanthropic students

BY MINA KERR-LAZENBY NORTH SHORE NEWS

Marta Orellana, a French Immersion Grade 5 and 6 teacher at Dorothy Lynas, is singing the praises of her class after they conceptualised and carried out their own successful charity event – raising over $600 for the North Shore Youths Safe House.

The group made reindeer hot cocoa bags in class, made announcements and posters to spread awareness of their endeavour, and then sold the festive creations out of their classroom.

They spent the funds raised on essentials including new pyjamas, socks, underwear, hats, hygiene products and snacks for the youth shelter, with students’ families also donating gifts.

“We reached out to our community and the students’ enthusiasm was contagious, so many businesses jumped on board to be a part of the giving,” said Orellana.

“The class mobilized and inspired an entire community to support these teens in a tough place.”

Orellana said Paul Butler, the director of Safe House, had provided the students with a wish poems and illustrations. Student Eleni summarized the learning taking place best when she said, "No matter who you are or if someone is different than you, everyone in the whole world should feel proud and included!" ■