02.03.10
TVHS students were decked out in red on Tuesday as they ate sweets.
Their gaudy attire and unhealthy eating habits, though, benefited a great cause - the recovery of Haiti.
An informal group of TVHS students has been raising funds for the embattled nation since the earthquake last month. Their primary effort has been the sale of wristbands for a $10 donation to the American Red Cross relief effort.
On Tuesday they expanded their efforts to include a bake sale during lunch periods in which students and their parents baked and donated goods for sale to students and others. Additionally students continue to donate loose change to a donation jar in TVHS’ main office.
The red clothing, said Teacher Leah Penniman, was meant to raise awareness on the University at Albany East about the plight of the Haitian people who suffered a catastrophic earthquake last month.
"We just saw all the devastation that has taken place and believed we should do something to help those poor people," said student Cody Bellair, who attends Tech Valley High from the South Colonie school district.
Penniman praised the "impromptu" committee for their generosity and willingness to support the greater community.
So far, the teacher said, the group has raised $310 and more fundraising efforts are planned.
"We are going to meet and see what else they want to do," she said.
Students at TVHS were already well aware of the economic woes that plagued the island nation even before last week's disaster.
Freshmen in the school learn how to construct solar ovens using mathematical and engineering skills that could be used in Haiti which not only suffers from a lack of economy, but also deforestation. For more on that project, click here.
