School Professionals
Teacher from Fairfax County Public Schools identifies kindergarten student with severe dental issues —
Before receiving treatment, Mary was barely able to participate in most school activities. She was distracted by the pain in her mouth, constantly complaining and crying during class, visiting the office for ice or even absent from school. I stepped in and requested assistance from Neediest Kids. After receiving just the initial treatment, Mary is able to answer questions, maintain her focus upon the speaker and to complete given tasks. She is once again able to interact with her peers and continues to develop her oral language skills.
A Social Worker form Prince George’s County Public Schools recognizes a 7th grade student who needs eye glasses —
She had broken glasses that were taped and tied around her head with a string to keep them from falling off. Her parents had no money to replace them so she had to make due with what she had. After receiving a purchase order from Neediest Kids, she went to Hour Eyes right away and returned smiling from ear to ear. Today that barrier to her staying focused on school and her future has been removed by a simple pair of glasses. She wears them proudly!
A Parent Liaison from Loudoun County Public Schools shares a Mother’s gratitude —
A mother and her three children went last night to use the Neediest Kids purchase order to buy proper school clothes. To them, it felt like a big celebration because they had $200 to spend. She said her children kept saying that they were rich and so lucky. For that brief moment last night, a family that has very little, felt very rich.
A Social Worker from Fairfax County Public Schools offers her view of Neediest Kids’ Bridge to Success Program—
I have been in the FCPS system as a social worker for over 30 years, and this is the best program/service I have available to assist our families in need. Thank you for making it a resource available to us.
School Superintendents
Children in Montgomery County Public Schools whose families have experienced financial difficulties have benefited from the Neediest Kids’ Bridge to Success program. We are so appreciative of this great community resource which enables our children to come to school ready to learn.
— Dr. Jerry D. Weast, Superintendent, Montgomery County Public Schools
Everyday barriers to academic success are overcome by the resources made available by your amazing organization. Thank you for your commitment to this necessary cause, and I applaud your continued efforts to ensure that all students in the Washington metropolitan area have hope for their futures.
— Dr. Patricia Weitzel-O’Neill, Former Superintendent, Archdiocese of Washington
For some of our students, school represents the best chance they have to make a better life. We are thankful that Neediest Kids stepped in during these difficult times to help protect and shape the future for some of our students.
— Dr. Edgar B. Hatrick, Superintendent, Loudoun County Public Schools
Neediest Kids is a valued and dedicated partner. Each time we are able to utilize the Neediest Kids funds, we ensure that students and teachers remain focused on academic achievement. Everyone at D.C. Public Schools is extremely grateful to have the wonderful support of Neediest Kids.
— Michelle Rhee, Former Chancellor, Washington, DC Public Schools
Neediest Kids’ Bridge to Success program is an important part of the safety net for families in crisis. Our social workers have been able to provide students with the clothing, eye glasses, school supplies, and other essentials which they could not otherwise afford. I would like to express my appreciation for the support you have offered to the students and families of Arlington.
— Dr. Pat Murphy, Superintendent, Arlington County Public Schools
Students who need clothing have received brand new uniforms, shoes and coats. Their self esteem has been enhanced. Students who have received eye exams or eyeglasses can now focus their sights, increasing their learning in the classroom. These students are scoring higher on school exams and showing improvement on their state mandated tests. I sincerely thank you for all of your support.
— Dr. William R. Hite, Jr., Superintendent, Prince George’s County Public Schools
Neediest Kids has made a fundamental difference in the lives of many “at promise” students. With partners like you, our school system is poised to provide quality of life services that will make a significant impact in the lives of all our students. Thank you for your valuable service to our children most in need.
— Dr. Morton Sherman, Superintendent, Alexandria City Public Schools
Neediest Kids focuses their resources on a child’s most basic needs like food, clothing and eyeglasses. That support allows us to focus on a child’s education so they can achieve their full academic potential. Fairfax County Public Schools is grateful for this partnership.
