By Dr. Darlene Foley,
Duval School Principal
It’s been a busy fall at John H. Duval Jr Elementary School with lots of exciting things happening. Last spring, Duval had its annual Boosterthon event and raised funds for an Outdoor Classroom. The Outdoor Classroom will be a flexible learning space for teachers and students. It was purposely designed so seating (not shown) can be arranged that reflects lesson needs and the imagination of teachers and students. The project was designed and built with the support of Duval families, PTO, and WHRSD. I’d like to give special thanks to Baker and Sons Construction, Chuck Crawford, Mike Driscoll, Marshall Ottina, and Matt Price, who were instrumental during the process.
Duval held its Annual Basket Raffle on Nov. 17 at the Whitman VFW. The event was so much fun for the entire family, and we raised a staggering $15,500!
The Basket Raffle is a huge undertaking every year and includes a wide variety of themed baskets, gift certificates, entertainment tickets, and unique experience events designed and donated by the Duval staff. The Annual Basket Raffle keeps getting better due to the ongoing commitment of our volunteers and the generosity of our entire school community.
I’d like to thank the PTO board members Mrs. Dearing, Mrs. DeLaiarro, Mrs. Lyons, Mr. Ottina, and Mrs. Chester (the event chair…huge kudos!) who worked on the event about 12 months in advance. Proceeds from the event support learning enrichment programs for all of our Duval Dolphin students.
The giving keeps on giving at Duval!
Last Friday, we wrapped up our Holiday Food Drive for the Whitman Food Pantry at our All School Meeting. Students donated green beans, carrots, potatoes, yams, gravy, cranberry sauce, desserts, and quick breads. All those individual donations – those individual acts of kindness – resulted in an enormous food donation that will help many families in our community.
With the help of our grade five Student Council members, 500 pounds of food was loaded into cars destined for the Whitman Food Pantry. Former Duval teacher Mrs. Kelley, Mrs. Carpenter, Mrs. Smith, and Mr. Ward received the donation on behalf of the Whitman Food Pantry. Thank you to all the families who contributed to the food drive. At Duval, we feel that this food drive provides students with an important opportunity to learn and practice community engagement and citizenship.
These successes show that students, families, and staff are fully committed to our school. I am grateful for everyone’s attention and effort that make John H. Duval Jr. Elementary School a special place.