Rotary Focuses Support on Title I Schools

Joan Smith, President

The Rotary Club of Goodyear PebbleCreek (GYPC) values strong schools and strong communities. This thriving service club prioritizes partnerships with Avondale, Litchfield, and Agua Fria school districts, with emphasis on Title I schools where children from low-income families compose at least forty percent of enrollment.

Most recently, GYPC Rotary donated 27 ChromeBooks to students at Corte Sierra Elementary School in the Litchfield Elementary School District. This generous gift was made possible by grant support from the United Parcel Service (UPS).

Principal Tanya Rotteger says, “In light of this global pandemic, our Falcons are relying on technology to protect their mental health and to achieve academic goals. Especially in light of the pandemic, many families simply cannot afford adequate devices for all of their children.”

In addition to critical technology for students, the GYPC Rotary Club has also raised money this year for emergency supplies for Title I school nurses, white boards for student use, STEM education funding, teacher appreciation gifts, student uniforms, and holiday boxes with food and books for families in need.

Rotary President Joan Smith says, “Schools are working against all odds to meet the diverse needs of their students. We are committed to supporting quality education in our community.”

Superintendent Jodi Gunning says that community support is key to Litchfield Elementary School District’s success. “Community partnerships strengthen over time and provide a base of trust and consistency for our schools. The generosity of our Rotary members is astounding and impacts local children who really need an extra boost in life.”

“Rolling up our sleeves and going to work for the community is the essence of Rotary volunteer service,” said Smith. “We actively engage in the community on a variety of fronts where needs are identified and our time and commitment can make a difference.”

“Our club is dedicated to ‘Service Above Self’ and we partner with 1.2 million other Rotarians around the world who are committed to truth, fairness, goodwill, friendship, and enriching communities,” said Smith.

The Rotary Club of Goodyear PebbleCreek currently meets every Wednesday from 7 to 8 a.m. by Zoom. We are a group of neighbors, community leaders, and local citizens uniting for the common good. Visitors are always welcome. Email [email protected] for Zoom meeting information. In-person meetings will resume when it is safely possible.