One Pine Tree Elementary fourth grade class really got into the spirit of the holidays last month when they put together Hope Chests for children who would not otherwise receive a holiday present.
All through December, Mrs. Kempski’s class brought in items for the chests, and then wrapped and decorated the treasure chests. The chests were then filled with toys for Pontiac-area children.
According to teacher Melissa Kempski, some of the students even used some of their own classroom economy money to buy items in the class store for the children.
Kempski belongs to a group called Kids Care Club.
‘This club gave me the idea to challenge my students to bring in new, small gifts for children who would not have a Christmas like them,? she said, noting that the students also discussed what it would be like to have a Christmas where no gifts were exchanged, a discussion she believed prompted their understanding and excitement for this project.
Kempski added that the students decorated their Hope Chests ‘with lots of love.?
‘They put personal touches into both the outside and inside of the boxes, making them treasures for those receiving them,? she said. ‘I was very proud to see that the students rose to the challenge and put their hearts into the project.?