Glendora Student Honored for Tsunami Relief Effort

When third-grader Sandra Awad heard about the March 11 tsunami in Japan, she immediately felt empathy for the people of the country thousands of miles away from here.

The Glendora Elementary School student, whose family is native to Egypt, already knew what it was like to be personally affected by a news headline.

“She was very worried about our family members who still live in Egypt,” said Sandra’s mother,  Shahira Awad, of the revolution in that country during early 2011. “A lot of our family is still there, and she was very concerned about them.”

Sandra’s family endured the upheaval in Egypt, but these events seemed to instill in her a sense of compassion on a global scale. When the tsunami occurred in Japan, Sandra knew she needed to do something to help. 

With the help of her teachers, she coordinated a “Jar for Japan” fundraising effort, which was designed to raise money for the American Red Cross. She took up donations from students during lunch and even her recess time.

“She even brought the jar to our church, and collected funds there,” Shahira Awad said. “She put a lot of effort into it.”

Sandra’s efforts paid off, and she was able to raise $458.68 to be donated to the Red Cross for the relief effort in Japan.

At Monday’s Gloucester Township Public Schools board meeting at Glen Landing Middle School, Sandra was recognized not only as a “Shining Star” by the district, but was also honored by the Red Cross.

A representative of the American Red Cross presented her with an award in appreciation of her fundraising efforts.

Her mother said she’s pleased to see Sandra making a difference at such a young age.

“We’re so proud of her,” Shahira Awad said. “She has always been a very helpful, caring person.”

Monday’s meeting also marked the end of a long Board of Education tenure for Concetta Venuto, an 18-year veteran of the board.

Board President William Collins presented Venuto with an award recognizing her years of service to the board.

“Connie was instrumental in redoing our policy, and she has been a valuable member of this board,” Collins said. “I don’t think anyone here can say anything but good things about her.”

After accepting the award, Venuto hugged each of the board members and thanked them for the opportunity to serve the district.

“I want to thank all of the past and present board members I’ve worked with–I value the relationship I have with all of you,” she said. “I’ve made some lasting friendships, and I want to thank you; I’ve enjoyed every minute.”

Venuto has opted not to seek another term on the board, which will hold its election April 27.

The Board of Education’s reorganization meeting will be held on May 9 at the board office, Superintendent Thomas Seddon said.

At Monday’s meeting, the board also passed a resolution echoing the shared- services agreement adopted last week by the Township Council. This cost-cutting measure involves a solar-energy project between the K-8 district, the township and Black Horse Pike Regional School District.

“I would direct your attention to the last paragraph (of the resolution), which reads ‘The township or Board of Education has the right to reject any or all bids,’” Seddon said.