Our WMS students have been discovering the power of empathy, creativity, and community involvement. In recent months, our students have had the incredible opportunity to connect with Jordan Sonnenblick, best known for his heartwarming and thought-provoking books, including Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie. This led to a brilliant chain reaction, showing support to those in need and making a real difference in the lives of others. With Sonnenblick's visit, Mrs. Davey's 8th-grade Language Arts students have been diving into his book, which tells the story of 13-year-old Steven, whose life is upended when his younger brother, Jeffrey, is diagnosed with leukemia. Through Steven's eyes, our students experience the challenges of navigating school while dealing with a life-changing family crisis.
Inspired by the compelling themes of the book they were reading, Mrs. Davey's students decided to turn those lessons into meaningful action by spreading positivity and kindness. Drawing inspiration from the story’s messages of hope, resilience, and compassion, the students created and sent electronic greeting cards filled with hope and encouragement to patients at Nationwide Children's Hospital. This thoughtful idea not only allowed Mrs. Davey’s students to practice empathy and creativity but also connect their Language Arts lessons to a real-world cause, enabling them to make a difference in the lives of others who were facing their own challenges. Through this project, the students experienced firsthand the power of words to inspire and uplift, creating a ripple effect of kindness beyond their classroom.
Before Thanksgiving break, Westfall Middle School was honored to host Jacob Welter, Event Manager for Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Central Ohio. Mr. Welter shared the inspiring history and mission of RMHC, an organization dedicated to providing a "home-away-from-home" for families with children receiving treatment at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Moved by this cause, Westfall Middle School eagerly stepped up to make a difference. Inspired to contribute, the school launched a pop-tab drive to support RMHC’s efforts, as the proceeds from recycling these small aluminum tabs directly help fund the services provided to their families.
What started as a simple pop-tab collection drive quickly turned into a remarkable display of generosity, as students, staff, and families went above and beyond—bringing in buckets upon buckets of aluminum pop tabs to support Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Central Ohio. Inspired by the cause, students eagerly took on the challenge, scouring their homes, asking neighbors, and rallying their families to contribute. What they accomplished exceeded all expectations!
To celebrate their hard work, a group of students had the opportunity to visit Ronald McDonald House, where they personally delivered their donations, toured the facility, and learned more about how their contributions help families in difficult times. While there, they met a young resident whose positivity was truly inspiring. He joked, danced, and high-fived everyone—reminding all that joy can shine even in the toughest moments. His energy gave a whole new outlook on life!
If you are a collector of pop tabs, please consider donating your collection to Ronald McDonald House Charities. Your contribution helps support their mission to provide services that remove barriers, strengthen families, and promote healing when children need healthcare. Every small act of kindness makes a big difference.