North Olmsted Students Volunteer for Leaf Pickup During PSAT

In a heartwarming display of community service, students from North Olmsted High School dedicated their day to assisting elderly residents with leaf pickup while their peers took the PSAT exam. This annual tradition, which took place on October 16, 2023, saw around 25 students and staff members brave challenging weather conditions to lend a helping hand to local seniors.

Chris Caleris, Superintendent of North Olmsted City Schools, praised the initiative conceived by Principal Jim Koontz. “Overall, our district is looking for new ways for our students to experience the importance of helping in the community and helping others,” Caleris stated. He highlighted the positive impact of the event, noting that despite the rain and cold, the students received numerous compliments for their efforts.

This community service project was organized in collaboration with the local senior center, targeting specific households in need of assistance. It aimed to instill a sense of civic responsibility among students while simultaneously providing valuable support to elderly residents.

Freshman Crystal Crutchfield, who participated in the leaf cleanup, expressed her motivation for volunteering. “Since I wasn’t busy with anything else that day, I thought it would be a great idea to give back to some of our elderly citizens in our community,” she said. Crutchfield emphasized the rewarding nature of the experience, noting that seeing the appreciation from the residents made the challenging weather worthwhile.

The event showcased the commitment of North Olmsted High School to foster a culture of service among its students. By engaging in such activities, students not only learn the importance of community involvement but also develop a deeper connection with their local environment.

This initiative is part of a broader effort by North Olmsted City Schools to integrate community service into the curriculum, encouraging students to play an active role in enhancing their neighborhoods. As the school year progresses, more opportunities for student involvement in community service are expected to emerge, further strengthening the bond between the school and local residents.

Such projects not only benefit the recipients but also help students grow personally and socially, making them more aware of the needs of others. This year’s leaf pickup event is just one example of how young people can make a significant difference in their communities while gaining valuable life experiences.

Overall, the leaf pickup day exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism that thrives within North Olmsted, as students and staff come together to support their community and make a positive impact on the lives of local seniors.