Gainesville Exploration Academy participated in a learning initiative entitled "Learning through Giving" during December in which each grade level sponsored a community outreach program of choice.
Students in Pre-K and Kindergarten sponsored the Resting Nest of Hall County by creating ornaments and cards for the residents.
First grade sponsored the Hall County Animal Shelter. Students and staff worked together to gather items needed to support the shelter which included towels, blankets, food, serving bowls, and toys. This project was a learning activity as well in which students researched the animals' needs and were visited by staff at the Animal Shelter for discussions about the animals.
Second and fourth grades sponsored the Gateway House for battered women and abused children. Students advertised, created, and sold candy cane grams raising $400 with all proceeds donated to the Gateway House.
The fifth grade sponsored Hall County Meals on Wheels by designing and creating placemats that were delivered with meals for the elderly.
Although the projects for December focused on giving, students learned core concepts related to the curriculum as well, according to school officials.
"Students practiced (their) skills through advertising, creating, using math, literacy standards, and more," said Wilhoite. "We were very pleased with how much we were able to give back this holiday season!" It is always a win-win situation for students and the community whenever "learning and giving" connect in a meaningful way."
