UPDATE: Clarendon Hills Middle School eighth graders transformed a testing day into a powerful community service initiative on December 22, 2023. While sixth and seventh graders were occupied with testing, these students dedicated their time to impactful projects that benefit both animal welfare and public safety.
Taking action, the eighth graders created “no sew” blankets for dogs and cats in local shelters, providing warmth and comfort to animals awaiting adoption. Additionally, they wrote letters advocating for the installation of Automated External Defibrillator (AED) systems at Prospect Park, a project partnered with the Just One Mike’s charity, which aims to enhance public safety in the community.
“We wanted to use the available half day to complete something meaningful,” said Meghan Carey, a Social Studies teacher and CHMS building team leader. This initiative honors former student Michael Brindley, who tragically passed away from cardiac arrest in 2016. His family established the Just One Mike’s charity to promote awareness and funding for AED installations in public spaces.
Currently, Clarendon Hills parks lack AEDs, and the students’ letters aim to push for a partnership with Just One Mike’s to install these life-saving devices. “The students wrote letters advocating for the village to partner with Just One Mike’s to have them installed,” Carey confirmed.
The blanket-making project resonated with the students, many of whom are animal lovers. “Donated blankets allow shelters to send them home with pets when adopted, helping animals transition to their new homes,” Carey explained.
Eighth grader Radha Kaushal-Goel shared her enthusiasm, stating,
“This was one of the best stations, as it left all of us feeling better, as we felt as if we had changed an animal’s life.”
Her classmate, Olivia Shum, reflected on the advocacy work, saying,
“It made us feel like we could make decisions in the community and be heard.”
These service projects embody the school’s commitment to community involvement and social-emotional learning. “We wanted the students to realize the value of giving back,” Carey emphasized.
The eighth graders’ dedication to these initiatives highlights a significant shift in how students can engage with their communities. As they wrap up this year’s projects, the impact of their actions will resonate well beyond the classroom, demonstrating the power of youth to effect real change.
What’s next? The letters advocating for the AED installations will be submitted to village officials, and the community will await the response. The eighth graders’ efforts set a precedent for future projects, ensuring that service remains a core component of their educational experience.
This urgent initiative not only illustrates the commitment of Clarendon Hills students to their community but also highlights the importance of youth activism in creating safer, more compassionate environments.
