Seniors treat teachers to more than just supplies

By Lauren Witt

Children, families and teachers aren’t the only ones participating in back-to-school activities. Residents of Presbyterian Village North, a premier senior living community in Dallas, are eagerly gearing up for the start of the new school year as well. From hosting a school supply drive to preparing for a happy hour for teachers to signing up for opportunities to mentor students, these seniors are excited to contribute to a good year at Stults Road Elementary. The school supply drive ran from August 4 until August 23. On August 23, PVN welcomed teachers from the elementary school for a happy hour, during which they presented them with all the school supplies and money collected through the drive. The happy hour was a fun event in which retired and current teachers reminisced and talked about how learning environments have changed over time. 

“We have several residents who are expressing interest in becoming mentors for some of the students,” said Leticia Valdez, life enrichment manager of Presbyterian Village North. “Mentors are needed for at-risk students who would benefit from having a trusted and experienced volunteer to listen to them, help them cope with difficult life circumstances and be there for them as a friend. The volunteers meet with their students once a week at lunch time.”