MARK-ALAN WHITTLE
Embrace change … make it work                                         CONTACT MARK
COMMUNITIES MUST HELP

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Hamilton Spectator
As a member of the Assembly of School Councils, I'd like to suggest a number of initiatives that can improve the learning experience for children in the expansive and energetic  kindergarten program at Buchanan Park elementary school.
Why not invite some local seniors or students' grandparents to volunteer one morning a week to help the kids get the basics of personal hygiene down pat? Or why not make cleaning yourself up after snacks part of the curriculum and have hand-and-face inspections to ensure compliance?
Perhaps these caring and concerned parents could organize a community fundraiser or a new-toy drive to supply educational games for the students lacking them. This would give all residents in the Buchanan Park school community a chance to contribute directly and show the children the community cares about the quality of the education the students receive. Sometimes, "bells and whistles" are necessary to make education fun, leaving a lasting and positive impression that shapes learning for the better.
Perhaps, rather than simply make negative comments, Hamilton Mountain Liberal MPP Dr. Marie Bountrogianni should spend some time volunteering in the classroom and be part of the solution, as are hundreds of parents every day.