Our first responders and military are there to protect us when we need them most, and a class at Rising Starr Middle wants to make sure they know they are appreciated. Elizabeth McCullough’s 8th grade class gathered goodies and wrote heartfelt messages for local firefighters and the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office.

It’s an annual tradition dating back about 16 years that McCullough continues with a focus on 9/11 in her social studies class.

“After the lesson we talk about the bravery of our local police and fire department. We talk about if something terrible happened in our community, their heroes would come in to help us,” said McCullough.

Students and parents donate goodies, and the students also hand-write three letters each, one for firefighters, one to law enforcement, and one to active military. McCullough delivers the letters and goodies herself to local first responders, and the military letters are mailed overseas.

“This is an important lesson in history, and it also reminds us to be kind to all and come together and help ALL Americans.”