The school year is about to start and the students of Paul Smith School in Franklin are having art supplies donated to set them on a path for another great year. The school district cut the art teacher and funds for art supplies, so the community has stepped up to help fill the void. While there is no way to repair the financial inequities the schools have always had to overcome in Franklin, we are excited to see communities banding together to give what they can and raise the funds to round out the education of the students there.
So far we must thank the Gorton family from as far away as Hampstead, who asked for art donations at their daughter’s recent birthday party instead of presents. There have also been generous contributions from Tilton Walmart, R & D Paving, forthcoming supplies from Staples, offers from Online Stencils, as well as many Franklin high school alumni and friends through Facebook making personal donations. And in the spring, an online GoFundMe campaign started the efforts, but this latest drive has shown how overwhelming much support the youngest learners have!
My mother was one of the many teachers who spent their career educating learners at Paul Smith Elementary School. Paul A. Smith and his wife, Harriet (who was also a teacher there), were personal friends of the family. Mike Hoyt has just retired from leading the school as principal for the past many years and will be greatly missed. Before him, Bob Ross, Will Roberge, Debbie McNeish all led the school. Now, Susan Blair has taken over the reins. Let us welcome Ms. Blair and show her how supportive the community can be!
If you are also willing to donate funds toward supplies for art projects that enrich the learning of the children, checks or gift cards to Staples or Walmart can be sent to Paul Smith Art Fund, 41 Daniel Webster Drive, Franklin, N.H. 03235. If you want to donate supplies directly, they can be dropped off at the school or Kathy Fuller has stepped up to collect contributions.
My heart is filled with gratitude for everyone who has come forward!
From the proud daughter of Marjorie Briggs, first-grade teacher at Paul Smith School, 1970-1996.
Catherine Riley
Hampstead