Dormeka Pearce, faculty sponsor of Jonesboro-Hodge High School’s Student Council, helped spearhead a collaborative effort with Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School’s Wraparound Counselor, Tristen Bergholtz. The J-HHS student council members organized a canned food drive to support students in need. Their diligent efforts resulted in over 400 canned food items being donated. These items will help supplement the Weekend Backpack Meal Program offered to all Jackson Parish Schools.

Moreover, the J-HHS students provided direct service to the J-HES students through a peer reading program. The high school students were reminded to read confidently, engage with the younger students, lead by example, and have fun. The elementary students were in awe of high schoolers and have a newfound excitement for reading “like the big kids.”

The program’s goal is to showcase the academic excellence within the J-H Tiger Family, encourage volunteerism because it is helpful AND fun, and foster a love for reading. The J-HHS Student Council looks forward to coordinating future peer mentor events with J-HES.