Parent Teacher Magazine Gaston County Schools Nov/Dec 2016 | Page 10

Woodhill Elementary students make their mark on “Dot Day” They even brought their coins from the tooth fairy. In just four days, students at Woodhill Elementary collected $440 in change for the Gastonia Police Foundation. Woodhill Elementary students collected $440 in change for the Gastonia Police Foundation. The children presented their donation on Thursday, September 15 during a school-wide celebration of “Dot Day,” an annual international event inspired by the children’s book “The Dot” by Peter H. Reynolds. “Dot Day is all about making your mark,” explained Nicole Hallman, the school’s media specialist, who organized the event. “My idea was for us to give back to this community.” It was an important lesson for the children, said principal Amy Hord. “We really worked on teaching our students that they have the ability to make their mark on the world,” she said. “I’m so proud of them.” The celebration included a visit from the Gastonia Police Department bomb squad and K-9 units. Police Capt. Mike Lari, executive director of the Gastonia Police Foundation, thanked the teachers and students for their contribution. “This money can go to help give us equipment or to fund some of our community programs,” he said. “We are always trying to improve community relations and the best place to start that is with children. We don’t want children to be afraid of the police. We want them to know that we’re here to help them if they ever need help.” Students had the chance to meet police officers and learn what they do. Every class from pre-K to fifth grade got a chance to watch demonstrations from the bomb squad and K-9 unit. Officer Jason Eaker introduced them to K-9 “Recon” and showed how he is used to find and apprehend suspects. Bomb technician Christian Clinch showed a few of the remote-controlled robots he uses to find and disarm devices. “If you want to get into this field, make sure you know your math,” he told the students. Perkup Rewards is bringing Charlotte everyday savings and everyday giving just in time for back to school! Snag daily deals to shop smart while giving back to local charities and supporting local businesses. Get Perked up today! Go to PerkupRewards.com Sign up for exclusive offers at participating vendors. Be a part of the Perkup Charlotte’s $2.5 million dollar giveaway and enter to win some great prizes! 8 • November/December 2016 • Parent Teacher News