Editor:
I write in response to the letter regarding school supplies for districts other than Re-1. I started the Adopt a Teacher Project last year because I know a number of teachers in the district who have been spending their own money so their students would have the tools they need to learn. The project has been limited to this district because I live here and am most familiar with schools, individuals, organizations and businesses that are here.
I have always encouraged those who live in other districts to help their teachers. I have also urged churches to help teachers in their congregations, families who have teachers and employees whose co-workers have teachers in their families to find out what those teachers need and help them. Also, anyone can call the nearest school and ask what teachers and students need.
Residents, organizations, churches and businesses in the Re-1 District have been generous in adopting individual teachers, helping specific schools and donating to the school supply drive.
First National Bank of Cortez allowed hundreds of pounds of supplies to be dropped off at the bank last month and permitted the volunteers, ranging in age from 10 to 80+, to sort all those supplies in its community room.
The committee that organized the school supply drive consisted of retired teachers, parents, grandparents and others interested in helping teachers and students. The generosity of our community provided supplies to every school in our district, including the charter schools, Battle Rock and Southwest Open School.
In spite of the great response, not all needs could be met. There are 2,550+ students in the district. There also are over 200 teachers, who will be given the opportunity to be adopted and request items they still need. More information is available at judyswsc@q.com or 565-7837.
Judy Schuenemeyer
Cortez
Via email