Annie’s Mailbox: Calling students to food drive

Dear Annie: As a teacher of 35 years, I feel invigorated. Recently, I’ve helped pilot a program that reminded me why I got into teaching in the first place – to develop not just good students, but also great young people.

Can you help me pass on an invitation to every teacher, parent, school and student? The LEAGUE is launching its first event, called simply “The Drive,” to see how much food and clothing we can all collect for those in need. We invite every classroom and student group to join in.

It’s free and simple. Any teacher or teacher-certified student group (like a student council or club) can log on to www.theleague.org and then collect as much food or clothing for any agency they choose by Thanksgiving. Each class reports its total online, which contributes to a record attempt and earns LEAGUE points toward awards for the class, school and students – and recognition in the media. It’s a friendly “co-opetition” – with the community and all those participating as the real winners.

The LEAGUE is a web-based, all-inclusive system for students K-12, engaging them in doing good for their community, nation and the world. One hundred sixty-seven schools are now piloting The LEAGUE in New Jersey, Michigan, Indiana, Georgia, Texas, New York and California, and as far away as Zambia and India.

I have seen how students respond, not only to various LEAGUE events during the year (from King Day to Earth Day), but especially to the Learning to Give Curriculum and Learning Links included with each event. They connect what they learn in the classroom with the good they do for others. It makes learning come alive. Parents can help by clipping this column and sending it to their child’s teacher with a personal note of support.

Obviously, school is about academics first, but do you think we can one day make “doing good” as much a part of school as sports? – Sincerely, “Mr. C” Joe Czaszynski

Dear Mr. C.: We have a great deal of faith in today’s students and hope they and their teachers will log on to your Web site and check out the available activities, especially the upcoming Thanksgiving Drive. The more schools that participate, the better for our communities and those worldwide. Thanks for giving us the opportunity to let our readers know.