Group cares to make a difference

SANDPOINT — As the school term approaches, a new parent group at Sandpoint High School seeks to make coming years better than ever before.

Founded by parents Stacy Temple and Stephanie Allen, CARE, or Caring Adults Recognizing Excellence, aims to bring parents, teachers and students together in crafting a culture of appreciation and respect.

“We want to acknowledge and appreciate those who bring their best to school,” Temple said.

To do that, the organization is taking several measures, including project organization and recognition of excellence. CARE wants to utilize all levels of the high school environment to ensure that a healthy peer respect exists between students, staff and parents. By utilizing volunteerism and collaboration, CARE aims to be a resource for school officials to turn to when it needs help   Organization leaders also want to keep the moms and dads out there engaged in their kids’ lives and not simple end-of-the-day dinner companions.

“We’re trying to get parents involved at the high school level, whether that’s contributing their time and effort or making a donation,” Temple said.

A good example of CARE’s mission is their first project to construct a barbecue. First, the parents put together a design for a homemade barbecue and find materials for the project. Next, the project is handed off to the school teachers, who put together a curriculum for constructing the cooker in a classroom setting. The students wrap up the project by actually putting the barbecue together as a learning experience. And as a bonus, the school has a new barbecue to use at events. By getting all kinds of people together on one collaborative goal, everyone wins.

Speaking of barbecues CARE debuted in public Wednesday at freshman orientation by treating parents and students to a complimentary cookout. Event organizers said the event couldn’t have been done without Ivano’s owners Jim and Pam Lippi, Super 1 Foods, principal Becky Meyer, administrative assistant Beth Dean, Aaron Potter of Frito Lay and numerous volunteers.   

Temple and Allen first struck on the idea when they were on the road. Stuck in a hotel with nothing to do, they developed the notion of a parent group that works outside the typical role of a PTA. They brought the idea to Principal Becky Meyer, who loved it.

“I was sold within the first three seconds,” she said.

 However, the group needs help from parents. Temple and Allen are seeking individuals to offer up their skill sets in service of the cause. Graphic design, database development, test grading, student supervision and chaperoning, grant application and plenty of other duties will be a critical part of CARE. By offering their time and talents, parents can feel good knowing they’re contributing to a great cause.

“This means more community involvement and parent involvement, so I just love the mission,” Meyer said.

To contact CARE, call 263-3034 ext. 4000 or email care@lposd.org.