Law Co TN Coordinated School Health and Family Resource Center

Summertown Elementary School Welcomes New "Red Bench" to Playground

Summertown, August 20, 2024 — Summertown Elementary School is thrilled to announce a heartwarming new addition to its playground: a vibrant red bench, donated by SES student, Noah Kilburn’s grandmother, Roxanne Melvin. The "Red Bench" is more than just a colorful piece of furniture; it represents a significant gesture of kindness and inclusivity within our school community.
The concept of the "Red Bench" originates from a simple yet powerful idea: to provide children with a visible signal that they are seeking companionship. When a child sits on the red bench, it communicates to their classmates and teachers that they could use a friend. This initiative is designed to foster empathy, encourage social interactions, and ensure that no child feels isolated during recess or playtime.
Ms. Melvin was moved to make this donation after reading about the impact of red benches in promoting social connectedness among children. "I was inspired by the idea that something as simple as a red bench could make such a difference in a child's life," Melvin explained. "It's a small gesture, but it has the potential to create a big change in how we support each other, especially our kids."
The bench, which will be situated in a central spot on the playground, is painted in a bright, eye-catching red to ensure it stands out and is easily recognizable. It is hoped that the bench will become a symbol of kindness and a reminder for everyone to be considerate of one another's feelings.
In addition to its role in fostering friendship, the red bench aligns with Summertown Elementary School's broader commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all students. Principal Ricky Mabry expressed his enthusiasm for the new addition: "We are incredibly grateful to Ms. Melvin for her generous donation. The red bench will not only enhance our playground but also promote a culture of caring and empathy among our students."
The school plans to hold a special unveiling ceremony for the red bench later this month, where students, and staff, will come together to celebrate this meaningful contribution. The event will include a brief discussion on the importance of kindness and inclusion from SES Counselor Josh Runnels, as well as an opportunity for students to share their thoughts on the new addition.
As Summertown Elementary School continues to nurture an environment of acceptance and friendship, the red bench will serve as a daily reminder of the power of reaching out and supporting one another. With this new addition, the school hopes to inspire a wave of compassion that extends beyond the playground and into every corner of the community.

Please consider participating in this event in some capacity to support our wonderful Medical Director, Dr Benefield!

A benefit bicycle ride will be held on October 12 for Dr. Benefield to raise money to help out with medical expenses, etc. T-shirts are being sold to help as well. All proceeds go to Dr. B and his family.

So proud of the hard work and dedication that Ms. Jorge, Mr. Mabry, all the SES staff, and Abigail’s Plan has done to make this dream a reality!! Way to go SES!!

As summer draws to a close and kids head back to school, now is a great time to review some safety tips to practice throughout the year.

Reminder:

A big thank you to our community partner STRHS-Lawrenceburg for their help supporting our teachers with quality life savings Education!!

LCSS is THRILLED to continue offering students at ALL of schools BREAKFAST & LUNCH at NO COST through the 2024- 2025 School Year!

All Lawrence County school cafeterias are proud to operate under the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) for the 2024-2025 school year. For more information please visit https://www.lcss.us/nutrition.

Thank you to the School Nutrition Department, under the leadership of Kindlyn Simpson, for making this possible for our students!

Lawrence County Schools check out these extended hours to complete any Physicals or immunizations that are needed for Kindergarten,7th grade or new students enrolling that need an updated physical!!

It’s that time again!!!

Kids going into Kindergarten and 7th grade are required to have physicals and immunizations. For those of you who need a later appointment time,we got you:

Tuesday July 23rd 5-7pm
Thursday July 25th 5-7pm
Tuesday July 30th 5-7pm
Thursday August 1st 5-7pm

Call 931-762-kids today to secure one of the after hours appointments for your kiddo.

Very well deserved!!!👏🏻🎉

LCSS SRO, Clay Wilson, receives TNSRO President’s Award for his assistance in helping save a Leoma Elementary student’s life.

Congratulations as this honor is well deserved!

Grades 9-12
Cooking Cajun & Creole Food
Kitchen Safety & Knife Skills
The Great Culinary U Cake Bake Off
Fast Food Dupes
4H Iron Chef Showdown & More!

Cost is 100.00
Registration deadline is June 17th

Call Matt Adams or Tracy Hagan at (931) 762-5506 for more information.

Department of School Nutrition Newsletter, Summer Edition! 🍉
The full version is available at: https://www.lcss.us/_files/ugd/aea7a5_2f43750b2d804f4d8797784654e4680e.pdf

🎉👏🏻👏🏻

Summertown Lady Eagles tennis are STATE CHAMPIONS!!!!!!!!!
3 PEAT🏆🏆🏆