Hundreds of students in Palm Beach County are set to benefit from the annual Tools for Schools program, which will provide them with free, new school supplies next week. This initiative, now in its 20th year, is a collaboration between Red Apple Supplies, the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County, and Publix Super Markets, and aims to support teachers and students in Title I district schools.
On the day of the event, teachers and principals began arriving at the Red Apple supply store in Riviera Beach early in the morning, eager to collect essential supplies. The line of vehicles stretched around the building and down the street, illustrating the high demand for resources. Volunteers played a crucial role, assisting in loading supplies into cars and offering hot chocolate and sweets to those waiting.
Education Foundation Chairman Jim Moore added a festive touch to the event by serving as a disc jockey, while a barbershop quartet entertained attendees. The presence of Santa Claus further enhanced the community spirit of the occasion.
Palm Beach County Superintendent Michael Burke emphasized the importance of this initiative, particularly given that one in five students in the district lives at or below the poverty level. "This goes a long way to make sure kids have the supplies they need to stay in the classroom," Burke stated, highlighting the critical nature of the support provided.
Dwayne Dennard, principal of Pahokee middle and high schools, echoed Burke’s sentiments, stressing the significant need for supplies among his students. With 99% of his students enrolled in free or reduced meal programs, the financial challenges are evident. Dennard noted, "Without these supplies, a lot of our kids cannot reach their full potential. There are some kids that we lost because we didn’t have these types of supplies. It’s a great opportunity for parents and students with the way inflation is now."
The supplies distributed included a wide range of items, from notebooks to headphones, ensuring that students have the tools they need for academic success. Burke confirmed that these supplies will be delivered to students in schools next week, further reinforcing the commitment to education in the community.