Top: ASL students signed carols in the packed gymnasium at Westerville Central High School. Lower left: Westerville South Principal Mike Hinze and Athletic Director Josh DeVoll portrayed Woody and Buzz Lightyear from “Toy Story.” Lower right: Cheerleaders at Westerville North generated enthusiasm during the assembly.
The holiday season was brighter for many local families who are struggling this year, thanks to the efforts of students and staff in the Westerville City School District. When totals were tallied on Friday, December 7, Caring and Sharing received more than $38,500 from local high schools to help needy families in the community.
Westerville Central led the pack by raising $15,865.69. Key Club advisor Jennifer Horn coordinated the effort. Homerooms collected donations during the last two weeks and competed to see which class could donate the most. The first place homeroom brought in more than $2,000. Key Club members volunteered their time every day to count the contributions, sell candy canes, shop, and stay late to prepare for the assembly.
Key Club advisor Lauren Mattioda spearheaded the Caring and Sharing drive at Westerville North High School. Their assembly started with a Parade of Gifts from each Advisory, followed by performances from the orchestra, Notables and the cheerleaders. Donations totaling $8,905 were first revealed, followed by the addition of a surprise check from Student Council and extra shopping from students and parents, bringing North’s final total to $10,001.
Westerville South educators Cassie Coggburn and Lauren Sefton inspired pupils and staff to add another $12,679.56 to the mix. They were able to provide 118 Westerville children with gifts for the holidays. Homeroom classes that raised the most money received Schneider’s donuts in thanks for a job well done. The staff joined in the celebration by dressing up as Toy Story characters during a lighthearted assembly. Evil Sid tried to interfere, but Woody made sure none of the toys purchased were damaged. South’s Jazz Band and show choir, Sounsation, provided musical entertainment.
Not counted in this total are food and fundraising drives held by many elementary and middle schools throughout the District.