Author: Lauren Boisvert

In a significant step towards enhancing educational outcomes and community engagement, the Manchester School District has been awarded a Federal Community Schools Implementation Grant.  Manchester Proud will be the lead Community-Based Organization (CBO) for this grant. This collaboration, set to unfold over the next five years, aims to strengthen the ties between schools and the community, fostering a holistic approach to education and well-being.

As the co-lead for this grant alongside the district, MP will play a crucial administrative role in the upcoming year. The primary focus will be on onboarding new staff members, a critical step to ensure that the schools are well-equipped to deliver on the promises of this initiative. In addition to staff integration, MP will be instrumental in coordinating with various community partners to implement a suite of pipeline services. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to students and families, addressing a wide range of needs beyond the classroom.

The Community Schools model represents the epitome of school to community partnerships, emphasizing the importance of local involvement in the educational process. This approach not only enriches the academic experience but also strengthens the social fabric by addressing diverse community needs through integrated services.

MP’s commitment to supporting the Manchester School District in the implementation of this model underscores the organization’s dedication to fostering environments where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. The collaborative effort also aims to set the stage for the model’s growth and evolution, potentially serving as a blueprint for other districts seeking to harness the power of community engagement in education.

As the partnership progresses, MP and the district are poised to create a sustainable and impactful educational ecosystem, reflecting the true spirit of community schools. This initiative promises to not only enhance student success but also strengthen the bonds between schools and the communities they serve.

Tinotenda (Tino) Duche, a 2020 graduate of Central High School and recent graduate from the University of New Hampshire (UNH), has a story that inspires both on and off the dance floor. Tinotenda moved to the United States in 2017 and has since made a significant impact in her community through her passion for dance. We were able to see this impact during a visit to the Manchester School District’s summer Newcomer program. Tinotenda performed for students and then taught them several dances through an engaging and fun workshop. 

Tinotenda’s journey at Central High School began with a desire to connect and bring together students through dance. In 2019, she founded a dance club, initially starting with just four members. The club quickly gained popularity becoming a vibrant part of school life. They performed at pep rallies and other school events, showcasing a fusion of dances that reflected the diverse cultural backgrounds of the students, including Latin, Congolese, and African influences.

Reflecting on her experience, Tinotenda shared, “I am so grateful for that experience; it brought unity within the school and brought people of color together.” Her efforts not only provided a creative outlet for students but also fostered a sense of community and belonging. Despite having no formal teaching experience, Tinotenda taught herself dance through YouTube videos, choreographing routines that celebrated cultural diversity and inclusivity.

At UNH, Tinotenda continued to be a beacon of cultural awareness and leadership. She served as the President of the Black Student Union, where she organized and participated in various cultural events. One notable event was a fashion show where she choreographed the models’ movements, integrating dance elements into the runway presentation. This role further highlighted her ability to blend cultural expression with leadership, providing a platform for students to celebrate their heritage.

Tinotenda’s journey as an immigrant has deeply influenced her approach to teaching and connecting with students. She often shares her story of learning English through watching “SpongeBob SquarePants,” emphasizing the relatable struggles and triumphs of adapting to a new culture. “Students can relate to me and my own immigrant story,” Tinotenda notes, highlighting the importance of shared experiences in building rapport and understanding.

As Tinotenda embarks on her next journey toward a career in medicine, she remains committed to her love of dance. She will be working part-time with the Bring It program, where she will continue to teach dance to newcomer students, helping them find their own voices and confidence through movement. Her unique background and experiences position her as a role model, demonstrating the power of perseverance, cultural pride, and the transformative impact of the arts.

Tinotenda Duche’s story is a testament to the power of community, creativity, and resilience. As she moves forward, her legacy at Central High School and UNH will continue to inspire future generations, proving that with passion and dedication, one can bridge cultural gaps and make a lasting impact on the world.

On July 19, 2024, Manchester Proud visited the bustling 21st Century Summer Program at Memorial High School. This vibrant program, designed to enhance the learning experience of middle school students, has registered 140 participants, with around 70 attending daily. The visit provided a glimpse into the diverse and dynamic activities that keep these young minds engaged and growing.

During the tour, students were busy across various classrooms, each separated by grade. The creativity and innovation of the students were on full display. One group was engrossed in designing water parks, constructing their imaginative designs using Model Magic. Another set of students participated in Shark Tank-style presentations, showcasing their entrepreneurial spirit. One notable presentation was for “Mr. Cleaner,” a biodegradable cleaning robot with the catchy slogan, “Clean for the world, clean for your home.”

In another classroom, students engaged in discussions about personal values, an exercise that required them to choose five values important to them and eliminate one each round. This activity emphasized the importance of time management and focusing on what truly matters in their lives.

A unique and interactive approach was taken with a group of English Learners (EL) students who played a game involving popular songs. They had to listen carefully and fill in the blanks, practicing their writing and listening skills in English. This engaging method not only made learning fun but also significantly enhanced their language proficiency.

The highlight of the day was a presentation by Northeast Passage UNH, which captivated the entire program. The presentation covered adaptive sports and recreation, the differences between the Olympics and Paralympics, various techniques for adaptive programming, and more. The students were not just passive listeners; they were actively involved in a game of adaptive soccer afterward. This hands-on experience allowed them to understand the challenges and joys of adaptive sports. One student remarked, “This is harder than regular soccer but fun!”

The visit by Manchester Proud to 21st Century summer program hosted at Memorial High School highlighted the innovative and inclusive educational approaches being employed. From fostering creativity and entrepreneurship to emphasizing personal values and adaptive sports, the program is a testament to the comprehensive development of Manchester’s youth. The enthusiasm and engagement of the students are clear indicators of the program’s success in nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared for the future.

Co-Directors announced as Barry Brensinger retires as Coordinator but remains on the Champion’s Council

Manchester Proud (MP) is excited to announce the new leadership team of Debby Miller and Aimee Kereage as Co-Directors. Debby and Aimee will report to the Champion’s Council (Manchester Proud’s Board) continuing the momentum that Manchester Proud has built up over the past 6 years under Barry Brensinger’s leadership. Barry has made the decision to step down from his leadership role to enjoy retirement, he will remain a member of the Council and involved in MP’s work. 

Debby Miller brings over 30 years in executive leadership and community development in banking and non-profits. Debby will be working as the day-to-day keeper of the MP mission, conceptualizing new opportunities, developing strategies needed to optimize the work, providing leadership and advocacy for MP, and acting as liaison to the Champion’s Council.

Aimee Kereage has been with Manchester Proud for 2.5 years now, serving as the Community Partnerships Director. Aimee will now serve as Co-Director and will be leading community engagement and partnership efforts within the organization. Aimee has been actively involved with youth-serving organizations, the Manchester School District, and local businesses for nearly a decade. She is using this experience to create critical partnerships supporting the needs of students and families.

Manchester Proud Champion’s Council Chair, Katie LaBranche details the evolution and continuation of our work, “Our council is excited to see where Aimee Kereage and Debby Miller take Manchester Proud as we evolve. We certainly could not have gotten to this place without Barry’s dedication to our community. I first met Barry 7 years ago when he was canvassing our neighborhood. The questions about our schools and community intrigued me as we had just relocated from Raleigh, NC. I applied for MP’s Community Planning Group shortly after and the rest is history. I have worked with him to guide our council to learn from the community’s feedback, to present the Strategic Plan, create CelebrateED, and plan the state of MSD.  These are no small feats and were made possible by our partnership with the Manchester School District and the many volunteers committed to our public schools. Barry is a mentor and friend; he will be missed in the day-to-day workings of Manchester Proud. Debby and Aimee are a dynamic team and will continue to grow our connections to our community and the Manchester School District. ”

Debby Miller shares her excitement about joining the Manchester Proud team, “I am thrilled to join the leadership team at Manchester Proud. It’s an honor to continue the incredible work Barry Brensinger has championed over the past six years. I look forward to working closely with Aimee Kereage and the Champion’s Council to advance our mission, develop innovative strategies, and create new opportunities to benefit our community. Together, we will ensure that Manchester Proud remains a powerful advocate for positive change and community development.”

Aimee Kereage expresses enthusiasm in stepping into this new role, “I am honored to step into the role of Co-Director at Manchester Proud. Over the past 2.5 years, I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact we can make through strong community partnerships and engagement. I am excited to work alongside Debby Miller and the Champion’s Council to build on our momentum and continue creating meaningful connections that support our students and families. Together, we will strive to make Manchester an even better place for everyone.”

We are thrilled to announce the arrival of our summer interns, Lacey, Jasmerlin, and Santiago! 🥳 These bright and talented juniors from the Manchester School District are joining our team, and we couldn’t be more excited to have them on board.

Our interns will be working closely with our Community Communications Director, Lauren Boisvert. Lauren’s expertise and leadership will guide them as they navigate various communications projects, ensuring they gain valuable hands-on experience and insights into the field.

Join us in giving a warm welcome to Lacey, Jasmerlin, and Santiago! We are confident that their contributions will make a significant impact, and we can’t wait to see all that they will achieve during their time with us.

Welcome to the team, Lacey, Jasmerlin, and Santiago! 🎉

Meet Our Interns

Lacey

“Hello! My name is Lacey and I am a Junior at Manchester School of Technology. I like to draw, watch anime, listen to music, and play video games! I’m very excited to be a part of Manchester Proud!”

Jasmerlin

Jasmerlin brings a fresh perspective and a keen eye for detail. Her enthusiasm for community engagement and her ability to connect with people will be invaluable assets to our team. We look forward to the energy and ideas she will bring to our projects.

Santiago

“Hello! My name is Santiago Hernandez. I’m a junior currently studying at Manchester School of Technology enrolled in a Video & Digital Media Production program. I was born in Venezuela and immigrated to the U.S. Some of my favorite hobbies are playing instruments, such as the piano, and producing music digitally. I’m very excited to work as an intern with Manchester Proud!”

In a heartfelt display of community spirit, Gossler Park Elementary School has come together to support one of their own, Kindergarten teacher Jen Paquin, who is bravely battling cancer. The initiative was spearheaded by Ms. Coole, a Special Education Educator at the school, who hosted a lemonade stand with her class to raise funds for Mrs. Paquin.

Mrs. Paquin has been a cornerstone of Gossler Park Elementary for over a decade, starting her teaching career at the school and dedicating her life to nurturing young minds. Her impact on students and their families is evident, as many have rallied to show their support during this challenging time.

Ms. Coole’s class, a self-contained class with varying disabilities, participates in the lemonade stand project annually as a way to learn essential life skills. This year, they chose to dedicate their efforts to Mrs. Paquin, demonstrating the depth of the school’s communal bond. Students in their pink Gossler shirts, eagerly lined up for pink lemonade, excited to contribute to the cause.

The lemonade stand is just one of many fundraising efforts initiated by the school community. Principal Lori Upham shared her admiration for Mrs. Paquin, stating, “She is an amazing human being and educator. It’s not fair to her to be facing this, but our school community has come up with ideas to support her and her family.” Principal Upham highlighted the overwhelming response not only from current students and families but also from past students and their families. She recounted a touching story of a family whose child was in Mrs. Paquin’s class nine years ago, donating $500 as a testament to the lasting impact she had on their child.

In addition to the lemonade stand, the school has embraced “Wednesday Pink Out for Paquin” every Wednesday throughout the year. This initiative brings the community together in a visual show of support, with everyone wearing pink to honor Mrs. Paquin and boost her spirits.

The fundraising efforts continue, and the school community is determined to provide as much support as possible. Those interested in contributing can purchase a raffle calendar (see below) for $10 each before June 12th, 2024 by emailing Principal Lori Upham at lupham@mansd.org.

The Gossler Park Elementary School community’s unwavering support for Mrs. Paquin is a testament to the strength and unity of the school family. As they rally around a beloved teacher in her time of need, they exemplify the power of community and compassion

At the Tuesday, May 26, Board of School Committee meeting, Manchester Proud presented the 3rd Annual Student Volunteer Award to 4 deserving Manchester School District high school students. The award, which includes a $500 prize, was created to recognize Manchester School District students who show exceptional commitment to volunteerism.

The award winners for 2024, are:

• Patrick Vachon, senior, Manchester Memorial High School
• Helena Florek, senior, Manchester Memorial High School
• Vick Mahindru, senior, Manchester West High School
• Jenna Graf, junior, Manchester West High School

The students met with Mayor Ruis in his office prior to the presentation. 

The recipients were selected from all those who applied for the award and received endorsement from an advisor in the schools or community. Katie LaBranche, chair of the Manchester Proud volunteer Council said, “We are proud of all the applicants, especially the award winners, who exemplify the many Manchester students who volunteer in their schools, neighborhoods and community every day of the year. They represent the very best of our city and its public schools.”

“All students who attend Manchester public high schools are eligible to apply.  Every submission requires an application filled out by the student in which they outline their volunteer experiences and respond to several questions, along with a recommendation from an adult who can vouch for their service.  Grades were not a consideration in the judging.” 

More information on the honorees follows. 

Patrick Vachon

Patrick Vachon is a senior at Manchester Memorial High School. He stated that his goal is “to improve Manchester as much as possible, especially Memorial High School for the incoming classes so they can enjoy it as much as I did during the four years of high school.“

Patrick’s advisor noted his volunteer work in his neighborhood, helping neighbors who cannot maintain their properties, among multiple other volunteer activities.

After graduation, Patrick will attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY.

Helena Florek

Helena Florek is a senior at Manchester Memorial High School. She served as President of Best Buddies, helping to bring students with and without disabilities together to, in her words, “create unique friendships. Through these actions, Memorial High School has become a more welcoming and accepting place for those students with a disability.”

Her advisor supported her selection by saying, “Helena’s participation and leadership in the Memorial High School Best Buddies program is just one example of her character, commitment and drive to be the best student, friend, volunteer and leader she can be. I have no doubt that Helena will go on to do amazing things in college and continue to volunteer and spread inclusion.”

After graduation, Helena will attend St. Michael’s College in Colchester, VT.

Vick Mahindru

Vick Mahindru is a senior at Manchester West High School. 

Vick stated that his motivation to volunteer in many ways comes from the example of mentors who have inspired him to serve the community, regardless of the backgrounds, culture, gender or race of others, so that all can achieve the American Dream, and “leave the world a better place.”

Vick’s extensive volunteer service was cited by his advisor as follows, “I reserve my highest recommendation to Vick Mahindru as one of the most likely to succeed, one of the brightest students, one of the highest achievers and one of the nicest people to come into my classroom. He will more than repay your trust and support your scholarship’s mission with his willingness to learn, participate, and lead.” 

After graduation, Vick will attend St. Anselm’s in Manchester, NH.

Jenna Graf

Jenna Graf is a junior at Manchester West High School.

Jenna emphasized that helping those in need, rather than calculating volunteer hours, is what is important in volunteering, especially when it can create a “safe space for people who have a hard time reaching out for help.”

Jenna’s Manchester West High School GEAR UP Advisor, in supporting her application, stressed that Jenna has served as Junior Class officer, and photographer for the yearbook club. “Jenna isn’t an athlete but doesn’t miss a game so that she can get the best photos of her student-athlete peers. She is very active in the Key Club and eager to volunteer for any task/ project that needs to be done. This includes planning & setting up for school events, nominating others for leadership positions, Weststock, and so much more. Jenna is humble, kind, generous, and empathetic to others.“

Jenna will be entering her senior year at Manchester West High School in the fall.

Proud Moment: Memorial and West both present at BioTrek’s Second Annual Championship Competition 🌟 Congratulations to both teams for their impressive presentations!

From ARMI:

“BioFabUSA created BioTrek, a project-based learning program, to inform, attract, inspire and recruit students.

Developed by BioFabUSA, the program rests on three pillars: engagement with advanced technologies, familiarization with the principals of entrepreneurship and exposure to the education and career pathways that lead into the advanced manufacturing sector. These focus areas are wrapped around a student-led, design-thinking approach that lets participants concentrate on a problem area that holds real meaning for them and apply what they learn about technology and entrepreneurship to a real-world challenge.

Through the research and work associated with the program, students learn how to approach and solve complex problems and communicate their findings to a specific audience. Field trips to companies and universities help students learn how to interact with industry advisors, provide perspective on the professional opportunities available in the advanced manufacturing and technology sectors and increase awareness of the education pathways required to work in these fields.”

Manchester Proud is pleased to announce the relaunch of its website and community portal, “The Compass”, https://www.manchesterproud.org/. The new website has a new modern design and improved user experience. The revamped site now features a community calendar, and a centralized hub for sorting through and discovering local events and opportunities.

The updated website reflects Manchester Proud’s commitment to serving the community and fostering a sense of connection among residents. Key enhancements include:

• New Design: The website has been redesigned with a contemporary aesthetic, making it visually engaging and easy to navigate.

• Translation: The website can easily be translated into a variety of languages for ease of the reader.

• Mobile-Friendly: Optimized for use on all devices, the site ensures residents can access information on the go.

• “The Compass”: Updated and expanded with new community and business partners.

• Community Calendar: The standout feature of the relaunch, the community calendar allows users to explore events by date, category, and location, making it simple to find activities and opportunities to get involved.

• Streamlined Navigation: Improved site structure and menus help users quickly find the information and resources they need.

• Engaging Content: The site offers insightful articles, news, and stories about community initiatives and projects.

“We’re excited to unveil our refreshed website to the Manchester community,” said Lauren Boisvert, Communications Director at Manchester Proud. “The Compass is a valuable tool for families to stay informed about resources and local events. We’re confident this new platform will encourage greater participation and connection within our community.”

Manchester Proud invites residents to explore the new website and take advantage of the Compass to discover upcoming events and opportunities.

Manchester West High School FBLA Chapter Shines at State Leadership Conference

The recent FBLA State Leadership Conference held on April 2 and 3, 2024, at the DoubleTree Hotel in Manchester, NH, was not just a gathering of students; it was a showcase of talent, dedication, and innovation. Among the vibrant array of participants, the FBLA student chapter from Manchester West High School stood out for their remarkable achievements and contributions.

Comprising students driven by a passion for business and leadership, the FBLA chapter at Manchester West High School has been actively involved in various programs to support state activities set by student officers. Their commitment is not just limited to their school but extends across the state, where they join 34 other chapters from different schools, each bringing their unique skills and energy to the table.

At the heart of FBLA activities lie competitions that challenge students in diverse fields such as accounting, job interviewing, personal finance, web design, and public speaking. These competitions not only test their knowledge and skills but also foster camaraderie and collaboration among chapters.

During the State Leadership Conference, participants not only competed but also received feedback on their performance throughout the year. Despite financial constraints that hindered their continuing journey to nationals, the Manchester West High School chapter celebrated their progress with pride.

Deepasha, Vice President of the Manchester West High School Chapter, reflected on her experience, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to witness her friends’ accomplishments. Her dedication and leadership qualities were further recognized when she successfully ran for a position on the State Board. With a passion for improving school culture, Depasha proposed a state project aimed at fostering school spirit and unity.

Deepasha’s journey to the State Board was supported by her campaign manager, Varique, whose collaboration resulted in visually striking campaign materials and a themed booth adorned with symbols of nature. The chapter’s solidarity was evident as members sported butterfly pins, symbolizing their support for Deepasha’s campaign.

Behind their achievements lies consistent effort and dedication. The chapter meets weekly to strategize and plan activities, resulting in accolades such as the “Threads of Hope” award for their outstanding contribution to community service. Through innovative initiatives like social media promotions and engaging events, they have successfully increased their membership despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.

However, none of this would be possible without the support of their advisor, Debbie Stratton, and the Blue Knights Foundation. Fundraising efforts including bake sales, hot chocolate sales, and jeans 50/50 have been instrumental in funding their activities and ensuring broader participation.

Recognition at the State Leadership Conference further validated their hard work and dedication. Deepasha’s first-place win in Intro to Public Speaking and the duo of Nistha and Prakriti’s victory in website design exemplify their talent and collaborative spirit.

Nistha shared insights into their creative process, emphasizing the synergy of their skills in developing a website that serves a noble cause. Their success not only reflects their individual abilities but also highlights the strength of teamwork within the chapter.

As the Manchester West High School FBLA chapter continues to grow and excel, their journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring young leaders everywhere. With their unwavering commitment to excellence and service, they are poised to make a lasting impact not just within their school but throughout the community and beyond.

Beech Street Elementary School hosted an exciting Career Fair on April 17, 2024, that had students buzzing with joy and enthusiasm. The event was designed to expose students to various career paths and give them an opportunity to interact with professionals from different fields. The fair featured a series of engaging classroom sessions and a lively “Career on Wheels” outdoor exhibit.

Classroom Presentations

Throughout the day, students rotated through classrooms where they were introduced to a diverse range of careers by industry professionals. The presenters offered insights into their respective fields and shared personal stories and experiences.

• Rita McCabe, representing SubZero Ice Cream, captivated students with her innovative approach to making ice cream with liquid nitrogen, sparking curiosity about the science behind it.
• Gustavo Guerrero, a bilingual liaison, singer, songwriter, and advocate, shared his experiences and encouraged students to embrace their talents and passions in their career pursuits.
• Manchester Craft Market, a local market full of handmade items within the Mall of New Hampshire, presented on what it’s like to own a store front and make your own products.
• Manchester Animal Hospital gave an engaging presentation about vet science and the responsibilities involved in caring for animals. Students were delighted to meet a bunny during the session, which made the experience even more memorable. Seeing a live animal up close gave them a firsthand glimpse of the world of veterinary care.
• The Office of Youth Services introduced students to the important work they do in supporting and empowering young people. The Office of Youth Services ensures safety and positive growth for all youth and families by offering wrap-around services and connecting them to comprehensive resources. The program creates opportunities for youth to engage in positive activities and offers support to marginalized communities including LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and new Americans.

Career on Wheels

Outside the school, students explored the “Career on Wheels” exhibit, which showcased different professions that involved working with vehicles and equipment. This hands-on experience allowed students to see and interact with:

• Tony Terragni, owner of Terragni Carpentry, demonstrated the tools and vehicles used in carpentry and construction, giving students a glimpse into the world of skilled trades.
• Manchester Transit Authority provided a tour of a school bus, explaining how public transportation plays a crucial role in the community.
• UPS brought a delivery vehicle and shared what it’s like to work in logistics and package delivery.
• Manchester Public Works introduced students to the various trucks used in public works, such as a plow truck and garbage truck. 
• The Manchester Fire Department students discussed with students the importance of fire safety as well as who to call on during an emergency, students were also able to view inside the fire truck.
• The Manchester Police Department gave students an up-close look at a police cruiser and discussed the importance of public safety and community service.
• B’s Tacos presented their food truck, which was a hit with the students. They allowed them to view inside the truck, explaining the different aspects of running a food truck business. Students were fascinated by the setup and the opportunity to learn about entrepreneurship in the culinary industry.

The fair concluded with students expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to learn about so many careers. The exposure to different professions will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on these young minds as they consider their future paths. The event was a resounding success, fostering curiosity, creativity, and inspiration among the students of Beech Street Elementary School.

See the student’s exit tickets here:

Stephanie Emmons, Gossler Park Elementary School’s staff, was recognized as one of the WZID 20 Outstanding Women Award for 2024. Emmons was nominated for her exceptional work in the Manchester community and recognized for her commitment to her school and community and to supporting students and families.

Although Emmons is humble and doesn’t seek attention, she agreed to be featured because of her deep love for her school and the local community. Raised in Maine, she attended Saint Anselm College and earned a Bachelor’s in Sociology before obtaining her Master’s in Social Work from the University of New Hampshire.  Prior to joining the school district, Emmons worked with Waypoint and later became a part of the district working for Amoskeag Health as part of the Community Schools Grant. Following the grant, she transitioned to a full-time position within the district.

Aimee Kereage, Manchester Proud’s, Community Partnerships Director praised Emmons as an “amazing human,” expressing gratitude for the opportunity to work with her. Emmons herself acknowledges the uniqueness of the community, stating, “I’ve never worked at another school, but this community is so special…my goal and our goal is that people feel like a community—we are welcoming, we are not just a school.”

In her role at Gossler Park Elementary School, Emmons supports the entire student population of around 360 students, handling various tasks such as community and family outreach, attendance check-ins, individual counseling, and group kindergarten classes focusing on social-emotional learning skills. Additionally, Emmons plays an integral part in organizing the Parent-Teacher Association. During our interview, Emmons was organizing Popcorn Fridays where students receive a bag of popcorn and parent volunteers make the popcorn. 

Emmons also takes on extensive community outreach efforts, including establishing the school’s food pantry, providing Thanksgiving baskets, arranging Christmas assistance programs, Earn a Bike, Leadership Day, and so much more. She works to establish community partnerships, an example of this she collaborates with The Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester to offer trauma support groups, facilitating stronger support for students and families. Emmons emphasizes the importance of connecting families with resources and building relationships to foster a sense of community. 

Despite her many responsibilities, Emmons says, “I will never say no to an opportunity to support our school”. She truly embraces all opportunities to support the school and the community. She shares her excitement about having a new staff member join through the Federal Community School Grant, which will allow for greater community engagement and collaboration. Emmons envisions hosting more parent and family nights to strengthen connections with families.

While visiting with Emmons, the morning announcements came on which Emmons worked with three other staff members to create. This is a video message from students including the Pledge of Allegiance, weather, birthdays, lunch specials, and any other announcements. The editing of these videos was impressive with graphics and text overlay. Emmons shared that she and the three staff take turns in filming the announcements and editing them. 

As our interview concluded, Emmons’s passion for the school and community was evident but she shared her recognition with the school community, “I want to give a shoutout to everyone in the school; everyone here cares and works hard”.  

In recognition of her tireless efforts and unwavering commitment, Stephanie Emmons continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of students and families at Gossler Park Elementary School. Her pride in her work and the community is undeniable, as she proudly wears a “west side pride” button on her lanyard. As we walked out of her room together, she was greeted with smiles and hugs from students demonstrating her work in establishing relationships with her students. 

Interested in donating to the Gossler Park Elementary School food pantry? Reach out to semmons@mansd.org

Empowering the Next Generation: Reflections from the Boys & Girls Club of Manchester Foundation of Friends Breakfast

The Boys & Girls Club of Manchester Foundation of Friends Breakfast showcased the profound impact the club has had on the youth in the community. The event began with opening remarks from Diane Fitzpatrick, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Manchester, who set the tone for the morning by highlighting the club’s commitment to fostering growth and opportunity for the children of the city.

Loren, the Torch Club President, and an eighth-grade student, shared her journey from a quiet and shy first-grader to a strong leader with dreams of owning her own business. Loren credited her transformation to the support she received at the club, particularly from Antonio Feliciano, Director of Operations, one of Manchester Proud’s Champion’s Council members, who helped guide her on her path.

Mayor Jay Ruais spoke about the club’s vital role in providing hope and opportunity for Manchester’s youth. He praised the club for being a beacon of light, ensuring that children in the city have a place where they can grow and thrive.

Two youth members also shared their personal experiences at the club. Junior Youth of the Year Alondra, a seventh-grader at Hillside, expressed her gratitude for the club, stating, “I walk into the Club every day and immediately feel safe and accepted. I know I can be me.” Youth of the Year, 17-year-old junior Olivia, discussed how the club played a significant role in helping her overcome personal challenges and steer her life back on the right path. “I’m stronger than my past self. I am on my way to success,” she proudly stated.

A video was presented featuring interviews with various club members, highlighting the unwavering support they received from the club and the broader community. Business partner Fidelity provided fellowship opportunities that led to long-term employment for Central High School alum Doro Koita. Additionally, the video showcased a bike club led by the Teen/Tween Director, Zack Clark and a volunteer, fostering a newfound love for biking among the group.

Former club member and former employee Shirley Tomlinson shared her heartfelt story of how the club became her home away from home. She spoke about the club’s support during her junior year of high school when she lost her father. Antonio, who arrived with a bus of club members and provided comfort as she began to grieve her loss. The club rallied around her that day, giving her the support and love she needed.

The Boys & Girls Club of Manchester has created a nurturing environment where young people can discover their potential and cultivate their passions. The club’s ability to uplift a generation of leaders is evident through the heartfelt testimonials shared during the event. The support from the staff, volunteers, and community partners like Fidelity empowers the youth of Manchester to excel and become strong, confident individuals.

As the Boys & Girls Club of Manchester continues its work, it remains clear that it plays a pivotal role in shaping the future leaders of the city. Through dedicated efforts, the club provides a safe space where young people can learn, grow, and aspire to reach their dreams.