Last week I got a message from Mrs. Ryder asking me to look at an online article about a high school in Washington, North Carolina (the link is here). She followed with, “Can we do this?” When I read the article, I was immediately impressed with the heart of those students and the power of their project.

The article explained how students at Washington High School saw a need to provide necessities like food, personal items and other supplies to their fellow students who wouldn’t otherwise have access.

I also saw no reason why we wouldn’t be able to achieve the same thing here at JMH. Naturally, my response to Mrs. Ryder was an absolute "YES!". We brainstormed about how it would look and were convinced that it needed to be driven by students. Very quickly Mrs. Ryder was able to organize three students, all from different social demographics, who volunteered to spearhead this program and keep it going. Two staff members  also agreed, without hesitation, to be the advisors for these students.

Throughout this week, space was found, readied and filled with supplies. Friday “The Open Door” was officially opened. Students may access the room by telling a staff member that they are in need.  Teachers can then allow students to access the room. The Open Door is located in an area where students can remain anonymous to their peers. Once inside, they may help themselves to what they need, no questions asked.

The beauty of The Open Door is not just its anonymity. From the school's perspective, The Open Door gives in both directions. It helps those who need it, buit it also teaches and reinforces the value of compassion and stewardship. Students realize that there are kids they grew up with who are dealing with personal and economic hardships. They also know that they have a moral duty and the desire to do something about it. The Open Door becomes a vehicle for that.

The school feels strongly that our contributions to the local food banks must still take place. This practice is valuable not only to the community but also as a tool for reinforcing the value of citizenship. The student organizers are committed that The Open Door project will therefore be supported through fundraising within the building so as not to interfere with the other community-focused activities that already take place at JMH.

As administrators, Mrs. Ryder, Mrs. O'Neill-Wood and I find reasons every day to be proud of our students. The Open Door project is yet another reason. We will continue to do whatever we can to enable their efforts, to remove obstacles that stand in their way and to foster an environment where such initiative can take place. Go Tommies!!