What's this?
Areas residents are becoming aware of this fund through publicity involving the church and large donation to Brookland Baptist Church Northeast from a family.
When was this venture approved by the Richland 2 School Board? Or was it?
The type of venture cannot just be fired up by the superintendent, because it could involve liability on the part of the school district and possible disclosure of personal information pertaining to students, including minors.
One media article mentioned $50,000 from the church to help homeless students. Under what provision might the District provide information to the church about any student, homeless or otherwise?
Perhaps someone will enlighten readers here of a formalized agreement with the District that the board members have approved?
Anyone?
I am perplexed as to why you question a community entity supporting students of RSD2 through a financial donation. The district will not provide any information to the church or anyone else about any student or their family. My congregation supports RSD2 in many ways, including financial support for those most vulnerable and in need. While the district has been able to inform us of the approximate number of homeless students, we do not know what ages, what schools they attend, etc. I just delivered 29 weekend food bags for students who are food insecure. I have no idea who these students are, I only know what school they attend. I am appreciative of the members of our congregation who share their time and their financial resources to assist these families every week. And I am appreciative of the social worker who works hard to identify those who need assistance. This is not a venture with the district that needs Board approval. This is a gift - no strings attached! And there are many organizations in the community who provide for needs that are identified by the district social workers. Oh - in additional to the weekly weekend food bags, my congregation recently did a girls underpants drive (delivered over 500 pair), and a feminine hygiene products drive (extremely successful) for a high school. We also do an Elf Tree every year that results in gifts (supposed to be a max of $75, but I would say the average spent on each is double that) for 20 students at 6 different schools, and an additional 25 high school students receive gift cards. The superintendent did not fire up any venture. Our congregation reaches out because these are our neighbors. We want to assist those in need, as that is what scripture calls us to do, and are best able to reach them through the school district. We also believe that those who are better fed, have assistance with basic needs, and are shown value will be a little less stressed. This should increase their success (or continued success) in the classroom. There are people who try to lift others, unlike the intention of your writings.
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