Third graders at Ben Franklin School, led by teacher Erika Smoots, honored the memory of the victims and heroes of the Sept. 11 attacks by participating in a “Pay It Forward” initiative.
The class collectively decided to complete three good deeds as a tribute to those who perished and the heroes who responded during the tragedy.
As part of their efforts, the students chose to support the school custodians, Mr. Gerald and Mr. Joe, by helping to clean their classroom and the school cafeteria. They also plan to spread kindness by partnering with kindergarten students and showing acts of kindness to their family members.
The initiative is part of the broader PayItForward911.org movement, which encourages communities to commemorate 9/11 through charitable acts.
* * *
Lawrence Middle School’s Daniel Van Lieu has been recognized as a 2024 Eagles x Nouryon All-Pro Teacher.
The award, part of a 10-year program by the Philadelphia Eagles and Nouryon, honors educators from the tri-state area for their contributions to students and the community.
Van Lieu, a communications teacher, will receive a monetary award for school supplies, tickets to an Eagles game, and a personalized Eagles jersey. He is also in the running for the Teacher of the Year Award, which comes with an additional $5,000 in school supplies and a pep rally for the school.
* * *
Slackwood Elementary School recently received a donation of school supplies from Joseph Jingoli & Son, Inc. The donation, which includes essential materials like pencils and notebooks, will assist students both at school and home.
The contribution is a part of Slackwood’s community focused, “Together We Can” initiative, which emphasizes corporate responsibility and local involvement in supporting educational efforts.
* * *
The Lawrence Township Police Department marked its 100th anniversary with an open house event on Sept. 10. More than 400 community members attended the celebration, which emphasized the bond between the police, local organizations, and residents.
The Lawrence Township Public Schools participated by hosting a table to raise awareness about the district’s upcoming bond referendum vote, scheduled for March 2025.
* * *
Lawrence High School is hosting a Community Voter Registration Drive on Sept. 28.
Open to the entire community, the event will provide voter registration services along with family-friendly activities and food trucks. The drive aims to increase civic engagement ahead of upcoming elections.
For more information, residents can contact Dr. Jametta Clarke or visit the school’s website.
* * *
Lawrenceville Main Street will hold a Fall Arts Festival on Oct. 19. Thanks to the support of Gorecki General Construction LLC and Lawrence Township Public Schools, Lawrenceville Main Street is offering a limited number of free spaces for students to participate in a special student market.
This is a chance to experience entrepreneurship firsthand at one of the area’s most vibrant community events. The Fall Arts Festival features three stages of live music, more than 170 artists, vendors, and crafters, games, a FREE kids zone, and more.
Student vendors will be provided with a table to showcase their creations or products. Whether a budding artist, crafter, or young entrepreneur, this is the perfect platform to share their talents with the community, Click here to learn more and sign up.
Students from Erica Smoots class at Ben Franklin School in Lawrence Township participated in a Pay it Forward initiative. They are pictured with head custodian Gerald Altema.,
