Parker School Celebrates National Make-a-Difference Day

Parker School students volunteering at the Nature Park.

Friday, October 23rd, Parker School celebrated National Make a Difference Day, coordinated by the Student Council.  This year students worked with faculty supervision at sites throughout  Waimea, most of them within walking distance of the school. Sites included the Parker School, Trail and Greenways, Kanu, St. James Church, North Hawaii Hospice, Tutu’s House, Mala’ai Garden, Annunciation Church, New Hope Gym, and the Waimea Nature Park.

Activities at these sites ranged from working directly with children in the classroom to weeding and yard work, cleaning, making crafts and washing cars. The purpose of the day was to give students an opportunity to experience the importance of kokua and the satisfaction of collaboration and a job well done. This school-wide event took place in the morning for approximately 3 hours. Students returned to campus for a pot luck lunch of sandwiches provided by the Parker School PTSO.

Waimea Trails and Greenways President Clem Lam said, “It is amazing the amount of work a group of students can achieve in a small amount of time.  Their worked made a big difference in the accessibility of the trail.”  Special thanks to Jack Ross of Pacific Island Trees who donated woodchips the students spread on the trail.  With increased community participation Mr. Lam envisions a trail that will extend throughout the town of Waimea and towards the Kohala coast.  For more information visit www.parkerschool.net.

Hannah Parkin and Lila Aligood get instruction from Clem Lam President of Waimea Trails and Greenways.

Maia Tarnas and Jamie Burns

Keanu Mead

(North Hawaii News - November 5, 2009)