Since 1997, Colorado Springs Schools have welcomed Fort Carson soldiers into the classroom to volunteer their time in support of students and teachers. Fort Carson’s “Adopt-a-School” Program has given soldiers the opportunity to provide a valuable service for students, teachers, parents and the community as a whole.
Soldiers have helped out in every Colorado Springs school district and the program has been so popular eight schools are now on the waiting list. With that much demand, Mayor Bach launched a “Call to Action” to get the word out and encourage volunteers to participate.
Volunteers can participate as much as their time allows and have the flexibility to create their own schedule. Some schools do require back ground checks and those who are interested are asked to contact Donna Nelson, the City’s Economic Vitality and Innovation Specialist at dznelson@springsgov.com.
Wendy Godwin, Principal of Wildflower Elementary, attributes soldier support through the Adopt-a-School Program as one of the major reasons why Wildflower Elementary received the 2011 National Blue Ribbon School Award – the only school in Colorado Springs to receive the 2011 Award.
Donna Nelson, Economic Vitality and Innovation Specialist and CSM Kilpatrick present some of the features of the Adopt-a-School Program. Mayor and wife, Suzi Bach, along with CSPD Chief Carey, CSFD Chief Brown and other City sworn officers were among the enthusiastic supporters.
Others who would like to see the program expanded include Donna Nelson, Chief Dubay and Carmelita Holien, a School Liason Officer.
Mayor Bach said, “The Adopt-a-School Program helps students prepare to become our next generation of leaders. I want to thank all those who have dedicated their time to this program and I encourage more citizens to step forward.”
