Top: Enthusiastic “Elf” cast members perform before Westerville Central students in the packed gymnasium. Lower left: Westerville South Principal Mike Hinze shares a laugh with custodian Keith Allinder and choir director Linda Nolan during a skit at that school’s raucous assembly. Lower right: Bagged gifts were on display in the main lobby at Westerville North High School.
The holiday season will be 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 thousands of dollars’ worth of gifts from local high schools to help needy families in the community.
Westerville Central led the pack by raising a whopping $15,014.93. Key Club advisor Jennifer Horn coordinated the effort. Westerville South educators Cassie Coggburn and Lauren Sefton inspired pupils and staff to add another $14,123.51 to the mix. Key Club advisor Lauren Mattioda spearheaded the Caring and Sharing drive at Westerville North High School, where students were able to sponsor approximately 100 families.
Not counted in this total are food and fundraising drives held by many elementary and middle schools throughout the District.