Dr. William Clark

Superintendent’s Blog
December 2007
Community Service/International Service

            As we hit the holiday time of the school year, I would like to take a moment to reflect upon some projects that the district staff and students have undertaken in order to serve those who are less fortunate who live within the district and outside the country. 

     Since 2001, the Milton Area School District has operated a Caring Fund to meet the on-going needs of children and their families in the district. The fund was originally established in the “spirit of giving” following the events of September 11^th.  During the holiday season, individuals and groups have supported the fund in lieu of holiday gift exchanges.  The Caring Fund helps with the purchase of glasses, clothing, food, emergency medical needs, and school related expenses that some families are unable to afford throughout the school year. A gift to the Caring Fund at the holidays would enable a child to receive glasses, a winter coat, a yearbook upon graduation, an activity fee for a summer program, or a backpack at the start of the school year. Any contributions to the Caring Fund would be greatly appreciated and facilitated through the Business Office by calling 742-7614.  Questions regarding the fund can be directed to the Guidance Office at James F. Baugher Elementary at 742-7631.  The school district is very appreciative of the many churches that have added an extra layer of support by providing Christmas gifts and food baskets for some of our families.  The District is grateful for the on-going support of our local social service agencies.  Many families have benefited from their year-round commitment to helping those in need.

            In order to reach outside of the community this year, under the direction of Mr. Michael Conn, the district has undertaken the Cambodia School project.  Mr. Conn and his daughter visited Cambodia over the summer and were deeply moved by their experience with respect to the poverty that they witnessed in that region of the world.  Upon returning to the school district from Southeast Asia, Mr. Conn did some research about the American Assistance for Cambodia (http://cambodiaschools.com).  The web site provides information on a rural school project about an effort to build schools for children in rural Cambodia.  So far, this group has built 300 schools in the Cambodian countryside.  Under the direction of Mr. Conn, he has formed a team of students and a club called “Team Cambodia.”  They will be working to raise funds to build a Milton School in Cambodia.  The total amount that the students must raise is $30,000.00, and they hope to do that within the course of this school year.  This money will pay for textbooks, teachers, solar panels for electricity, a computer lab, access to the internet, and a well to supply fresh water.  This shows the teacher and students’ commitment to this project which will be kicked off at the December 21 assembly for the students and staff at the Milton Senior High School.  A variety of clubs are working to provide additional assistance to Team Cambodia Club to supply funds to make the school in Cambodia a reality. Questions regarding the fund can be directed to the High School Office at 742-7611.