In recognition of National Volunteer Appreciation Week, Jane Phillips Elementary School played host to a special luncheon on April 30.
The school has more than 100 volunteers in a variety of capacities, and many of them turned out for the luncheon, which was held in the library. The volunteers help out with programs such as the Lowe Family Young Scholars, Positive Eagle Buddies Building Lasting Success (PEBBLES) and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Hailing from groups such as the Kiwanis Club, they assist in areas such as Second Chance Reading. Members of the school's parent/teacher organization were on hand as well.
“We held the luncheon to honor and thank our volunteers for the time and support they have provided us throughout the year,” said Christina Rigdon, the family support coordinator at Jane Phillips. “We really appreciate them.”
The luncheon was made possible thanks to the donations of several organizations, including Outlaws Chophouse, Sterlings Grille, the Copper Restaurant at the Price Tower, Wendy's Old Fashioned Hamburgers, Tee-Jays, McAlister's Deli and United Linen.
Test scores have been on a noticeable incline at Jane Phillips in recent years. Earlier this year, the school was recognized by the Oklahoma State Department of Education with a coveted Academic Achievement Award. Jane Phillips chalked up a lofty score of 1,382 for all of its students. A score of 1,500 is considered perfect. The school earned its Academic Achievement Award for making the third best show of improvement among Group 3 elementary schools (enrollment between 236 and 345 students) throughout the state.
Jane Phillips tallied an API score of 763 in 2006, giving it an 81.13 percent improvement between the two years.
“Our volunteers help our students not only to achieve success in academics but to build life-long skills as well,” said Rigdon. “They model what it means to be responsible and respectful while and helping our students build self confidence.
“Without our volunteers, we would not be achieving the things we have been able to accomplish for our students.”
Volunteers enjoy a meal during a special appreciation luncheon hosted by Jane Phillips Elementary on April 30 in the school library.
