A Home Away From Home
When it comes to providing for its students, Burncoat High School not only doles out homework and projects to educate students in the curriculum, but through a variety of programs, such as the food pantry, the child center, and the "Burncoat Boutique", also provides the basic necessities to make life outside of school easier for its students. At the forefront of it all is Theresa George, a Burncoat instructional aide. Ms. George carries a strong presence despite her small stature and is a trusted member of the faculty amongst students. She is the epitome of the term "giving back", providing guidance and emotional support for students in addition to necessities.
"The demographics have a lot to do with the need of the community. With some areas where there's a large amount of public housing, and lower income, of course there's a need," said Ms. George, regarding the various programs she heads and helps run in the school. Burncoat High's food and clothing closet is unnamed, but many have suggested it be called "Theresa's Treasures" due to her ceaseless work to build it into what it has become --- a source of relief and support within the Burncoat community.
"What it really comes down to is the pride of a teenager. When they reach out is when you know things are really needed," says Ms. George.
That statement certainly rings true for many students. Some are too afraid to ask for help from their teachers regarding personal matters, but ultimately, faculty members like Ms. George are willing to provide it.
"With nonjudgmental faculty students feel safe. What I've encountered in the last five years is just not enough clothing, not enough food for the month, or even school supplies. I reach out in the community to provide these things for students," continues Theresa George. "I think I'm like the Walmart greeter. I certainly welcome students here at Burncoat and I think that's where the comfortableness comes in. It's having an understanding of children. That's why we're here."
The Burncoat community does a wonderful job of providing just that. Leonard Zalauskas of the EAW/MTA donates winter necessities, such as coats, gloves, and boots to students who need them every year, along with other high-need items, such as socks, t-shirts and underwear. During Thanksgiving, a group of Burncoat volunteers headed by Mrs. Francis Friedman, Mr. Francis Weeks, and Mrs. Antonia Mariano, put together baskets of food. These baskets were filled with ingredients and supplies needed to prepare Thanksgiving dinners, including canned goods and -- of course -- turkey, and given to families in need. When springtime rolls around, Mrs. Gina Zalauskas and Mrs. Michaela Curran organize for a bus full of Burncoat girls to travel to Metro West Princess Boutique to pick out free prom dresses to truly make it an event to remember.
Mrs. George herself reaches out to students directly to find who does need these necessities. The daycare, housed in the F wing of Burncoat Middle School, provides young mothers the valuable service of childcare and support so that they are able to complete high school and get their diploma while raising children, a daunting task in itself.
"The main thing that the daycare does is enable them to have a safe place for their children while they finish their education. [Ms. George] is a really great advocate to have in the school because she sees the girls, she talks to them, and she takes them under her wing. She introduces them to us so we can help them and set up doctor appointments and so much more," says a worker at the daycare.
No matter what the issue, the Burncoat community is always available to assist its students. Teachers are not there simply to teach; their influence is incredibly greater. Fostering healthy and trusting relationships between students is exactly what many teachers do, allowing for students to have a safe place to turn in times of need.
"I have students bring me clothing to supply to other students," says Ms. George. "I think it's great that people can reach out. We're breaking down the barriers of embarrassment, You shouldn't feel uncomfortable to ask. Help is always here."
And it is.