(Bags of gifts and groceries wait for distribution to the students and their families at PCHS)
Pulaski County Public Schools have witnessed many examples of giving the past few months, and that spirit continued this week thanks to the generous support and hard work of a community partner and many students and staff members.
Mrs. Frances Viars has worked hard throughout the year to collect donations. Her efforts turned into over $6,500, which she very generously donated to Pulaski County High School staff members that used the money to help provide Christmas gifts and groceries to over 40 students. This is something that she has quietly organized and done for several years. Mrs. Viars is also a former member of the Pulaski County School Board.
“There really are no words that can express our gratitude to Mrs. Viars for looking out for our students,” PCHS Principal Mrs. Jennifer Bolling said. “Her efforts, and above all her compassion, are very appreciated by PCHS. So many families are impacted by the time and care she has given to this initiative.”
School counselors identified students that would benefit from the gifts. The counselors spoke with the students, not letting them know about the plan, to find out what they may need or want. Lists were compiled and staff members went to work.
Mrs. Megan Pratt worked with the other members of the school counseling staff to help organize the effort. Mrs. Amanda Dishon and her Service Learning students helped out with the wrapping of the gifts. Mrs. Jaime Graham kept track of the receipts, reimbursing the teachers and staff members as they purchased the gifts. Mrs. Jennifer Higgs and her Service Learning students were able provide a food bag for each of the students.
The work didn’t stop there. Mrs. Kristen Hayes, Mrs. Amy Taylor, and the SCA collected and packed hygiene supplies for each student on the list. Mrs. Meredith Carter worked to keep the process organized.
“This truly took a village,” Mrs. Megan Pratt said. “Many thanks to Mrs. Frances Viars, who ensures each year that we have more than enough funds to provide Christmas gifts for our students in need. We are so grateful to all of our shoppers and wrappers from Mrs. Dishons’ Service Learning class and to those who donated wrapping supplies. Due to generous community donations and the hard work of Mrs. Higgs and her Service Learning crew we were able to provide a food bag to every student. Thank you! Mrs. Graham processed endless receipts and reimbursements, helped solve mysteries, and answered countless questions about how much money we have in the account and whether or not we can do this or that … and all of that with a smile. Thanks to Mrs. Hayes, Mrs. Taylor, and our SCA for collecting and packing hygiene supplies for each student on the list. Mrs. Carter is an organizational genius and helps us manage the whole process. We couldn't do this without her. We are grateful for our village and the blessings you are to our students every day. Thank you!”
The gifts and groceries have now been distributed to the students and families.
“This is just one more example of the heart this community has for our students,” PCPS Superintendent Mr. Robert Graham said. “This work of compassion by Mrs. Viars is inspirational and an example for us all. There are simply not enough good things we can say about someone who is willing to give of their time and efforts like she has. She has made this holiday season much better for many of our students and their families.”