Everyone likes to receive a gift, especially during the holidays. But Jack Abrams STEM Magnet School student council members are sold on the philosophy that it’s better to give than to receive.
The youngsters along with faculty advisors Patrice Monks and Janet Blitz visited the Carillon Rehabilitation and Nursing Center to sing holiday songs and spread cheer among residents and staff members there.
“Students donated items such as cookies, candies, crossword puzzles, books, magazines and blankets and created gift baskets to give to the residents,” Ms. Blitz said. “Students created homemade holiday cards.”
The STEM School student council’s executive board includes Camryn Smith (president), Mia Kaufman (vice president) and Isabella Henderson (secretary). Representatives have also been elected from each class in the building. The full student council meets twice a month on Monday mornings before classes begin.
The student council members really enjoyed their visit to Carillon and especially delighted in bringing happiness to the residents, some of whom are struggling with serious illness or infirmity.
“They sang several holiday favorites such as ‘Frosty the Snowman,’ ‘The Dreidel Song,’ ‘Santa Claus is Coming to Town’ and ‘It’s The Most Wonderful Time of The Year,’” Ms. Monks said. “Residents were delighted by the performance and many sang along with the children.”
Carillon provides short-term and long-term rehabilitation and 24/7 skill nursing care. Residents there always welcome an emotional lift and that’s exactly what the Jack Abrams STEM Magnet School student council members came to give. In doing so, the youngsters came to realize that it really is better to give than receive.