Stuff the Bus has been synonymous with the start of a new school year for many years. And, in spite of COVID-19 being prevalent everywhere, several school administrators from all five Clinton County schools gathered Wednesday night in the parking lot in front of the Frankfort Walmart to collect needed supplies for students for the upcoming year.
“This is the event that sort of kicks off the school year for us every year,” said Community Schools of Frankfort Assistant Superintendent Joel McKinney. “We recognize that our students are going to need some supplies and we’re just thankful the community comes out, pitches in and makes that possible for our kids. This is an important event and it’s a big event.”
The five county schools — Frankfort, Clinton Central, Clinton Prairie, Rossville and The Crossing — all brought buses or vans to have supplies put in them that were bought for the school of the public’s choice.
Rossville High School Principal Terry Thompson said this year’s event was special for a couple of reasons.
“First, I think for all of us were wanting to be together and show that unity is vital for the county,” said Thompson. “Secondly, all of us have a large population of kids that need assistance. This being my second year, I thought it well received last year. We were able to take back and provide kids with large quantities of materials and supplies.”
Another reason for the event was to try and show the public that the schools are ready to start a year which is expected to be a very difficult year due to COVID-19.
“We are ready,” said McKinney. “We’ve put so much thought and energy into this (safety first) in every decision that’s been made. But, we’ve still got a week and we’re going to take advantage of those days so we can get more ready. But, we’re about as ready as we can be.”
With all schools going to 1 to 1 learning and nearly every student in each district having their own laptops, will this event see a change to a more electronic type of venue for parents to purchase?
“We think it’s very helpful especially last March 16 when we went to this for eight weeks,” said Thompson about the electronic devices. “To me, it’s a resource. I think kids still need to learn how to write and they need to use paper and pencil in many situations. I hope we don’t ever solely go to that, but it is something that is sort of trending towards that.”
Erick Dircks was on site to put together a video and pictures of “Stuff the Bus 2020”
CLICK HERE to see pictures of Stuff the Bus.
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