Photo courtesy of River Martin.
by Kate MacLeod
On Thursday, May 21, Oyster River Middle School (ORMS) students and staff participated in Service Palooza, continuing a tradition that has brought students together for community service since 2012.
The day began with a schoolwide assembly led by school counselor Stephanie Kadden, who spoke about the importance of community and service. Student leaders shared stories about individuals from around the world who have demonstrated a strong commitment to helping others. Assistant Superintendent Suzanne Filippone encouraged students and staff to bring energy and enthusiasm to the day and led the traditional school cheer: “It’s a good day to be a Bobcat!”
After the assembly, students traveled throughout the area to participate in a wide range of service projects.
Fifth grade students traveled to North Hampton State Park, where they partnered with Blue Ocean Society to collect trash and document the types of litter they found in support of marine life conservation research and advocacy. Another fifth grade group visited Growing Places in Madbury, where students read books, played games, and spent time with younger children.
Sixth grade students worked at Lee Congregational Church, while another group traveled to the Browne Center in Durham to spread mulch and assist with grounds maintenance. Other students gardened and spent time with residents at Harmony Homes Assisted Living.
Seventh grade students partnered with the Lee Fire Department, McGregor Memorial EMS, and Durham Fire Department, where they cleaned emergency vehicles and learned more about emergency response services in the community. Other seventh graders worked at Thompson Forest in Durham, helping remove invasive burning bushes from the trails.
Eighth graders volunteered at Mast Way School, where they read books to younger students. Others worked on projects at Lee Cemetery and the Lee Public Library. Another group volunteered at the UNH Food Pantry, sorting donations and organizing supplies for those in need. Additional students spent the day at Wagon Hill Farm in Durham, participating in trail cleanup.
Service Palooza gave students an opportunity to connect with and give back to their community. The day continues to be one of ORMS’s most valued and beloved traditions, where students can see the impact they can make through service and helping others.
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5th-grade students search for trash at North Hampton State Park in collaboration with Blue Ocean Project.
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8th graders, Meixi Liu and Addison Schifano, help with trail maintenance at Wagon Hill Farm.
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6th grade students plant flowers at Harmony Homes Assisted Living.