Mabelle B. Avery Middle School Presents Donation to Square One

This year’s sixth graders – Somers class of 2018 – carried out their goals of dreaming big, believing they can make a difference, and supporting others when they participated in a community service project which culminated in a special presentation on Wednesday.

Based on the “three points of purpose,” as outlined by the 3-POP program,  students worked together to raise funds to help Springfield’s Square One, a school that was destroyed by this past summer’s tornado.  

According to a press release, Square One was chosen “based on its evident need as a result of the June, 2011 tornado (its headquarters and primary school location were destroyed), its proximity to Somers, its school philosophy of providing a solid foundation upon which to learn and thrive, and the fact that 90 percent of its students/families live at or below the poverty line.”

The project provided the sixth graders with a first-hand opportunity to be a part of something “bigger than themselves, together as a class,” the release went on to read.

Speakers at the Wednesday morning assembly reiterated that statement when they spoke proudly of the students’ efforts. Somers First Selectwoman Lisa Pellegrini called the kids “true leaders in their community,” and said she was very impressed by the wonderful, admirable thing they’ve done.

3-POP Co-Director Renata Bowers noted that the students went above and beyond in raising money for Square One by implementing a number of fundraisers, including a coffee and donuts event at the Somers Farmers' Market, a fundraiser at and a bake sale held at .

All totaled, students raised an impressive $1,808.56 for the tornado-ravaged school. In addition, Julie Kunzelman’s students embarked on a special project, using their own personal time and effort, to create a French alphabet book. The students involved authored and illustrated the book, which was presented to Square One for their library.

Square One Vice Principal Kim Lee was on hand at the assembly and gave an emotion-packed speech.

“What is so magical is what you’ve done today was for a group of children you don’t know. It didn’t stop your enthusiasm or excitement to make a difference,” Lee said. “You learned a lesson that even some adults have yet to master.” 

To learn more about Square One, visit www.sdn.org. For more information on 3-POP, visit www.3pop.org.