Over 900 local students change the world

In these days of high inflation, the Triton community still knows no bounds in its generosity to the schools.  The public made numerous donations in time, items, and money to help Triton students give back in a big way at “Triton Gives Back” day.

The event is in its 6th year, and with over 900 students (preschool to 12th grade), organizing this day is a major undertaking, but then Triton always makes it happen.  Sarrah Arvesen, Stacy Scheetz, and Ashli Faulkner head up the preparation for the day.  These young ladies, along with teachers, volunteers, and high school students assist the younger students with their activities that take place on school grounds and at numerous off-site locations.

Students are learning to be stewards of the world, not just in their own backyard.  They gained an understanding that something as simple as a card to let soldiers know we are thinking of them, to making dog treats for the Humane Society, having a food drive for hungry folks in our community, and making blankets for patients at Memorial Hospital are all simple ways to touch a heart.

When asked what skills or life lessons do you hope to teach these students?  Jeremy Riffle, Triton Schools Superintendent, responded:

“The skill of thinking of others over self or being willing to give of your time without expecting anything in return is an art that seems to have been lost. Triton School Corporation's hope, through Triton Gives Back, is to instill in our students and staff the importance of serving and giving back to those either in need, or just for the sake of living out the Trojan Way, thinking of others over self.

He went on to say: “We feel this character trait in our world will set Triton Students apart and will set them up for future success as an employee, teammate, spouse, or friend. This has proven to be one of the most rewarding days of our school year. The joy so many of our students and staff experience serving proves not only beneficial for the served but fills the heart of the servant. As Rory Vaden so eloquently states: If serving is below you, then leadership is beyond you.”

 When asked about the goal for the “Triton Gives Back Day”, Sarrah Arvesen, Triton’s 7th-12th Grade School Counselor explains, “We have one major goal and that’s this…Create a culture of meaningful service that puts others before self, while answering a call to action in our community with Trojan Pride, the Trojan Way.” 

That’s a lot of adult words, but here’s what the students had to say:

Kindergartener   "Triton Gives Back gives people dog treats for their dogs.  You work together for the dog treats."- Lincoln Miller

1st Graders

"When people feel lonely, they can look at our leaves and smile." - Kayden Vermillion

"We can help people be happy." -Ellie Widemeyer

"It's good to do nice things for others."- Cohen Brown

2nd Graders

"Triton Gives Back is important to me because we give food to those who need it the most."- Jameson Faulkner

"Triton Gives Back is fun because me and my friends get to help people in need."- Grayson Miller

3rd Grader

"I think Triton Gives Back means that it’s fun for the kids and nice to do for others. Like last year for the veterans. And I think it is nice because in 2nd grade you thank the veterans and in 6th grade you take stuff to other people. So, it's something you do to be nice."- Norah Miller

4th Grader

"I am excited each year for Triton Gives Back because I get to help people in need. It is also a fun time to work with my classmates on doing something nice for others. It is also a nice break from schoolwork for the day."-Kimber Potter

5th Grader

"Triton Gives Back means to me to make people smile, laugh and make them want to help spread kindness."- Maeya Martin

6th Grader

"What Triton Gives Back means to me it is a rewarding way to give back and benefit the community while having fun."

-Zoey

7th Grader

"Triton gives back is a day during the beginning of our school year where all of the Triton staff and students help give back to the community. This day means a lot to me because we get to interact with many different people and learn things about them and their life. I know that life is not easy for some people so for a small school like ours going to many different places and helping clean up, package food, paint, and play games with many people who can't do it by themselves really makes a big difference. Triton gives back means a lot to me because I love helping people and giving back to the community that gives a lot to our school. "-Avery Wright

8th Grader

"To me, Triton Gives Back is a special time, when we can be we community as a school corporation, altogether, and be of service to our amazing, loving, and super supportive community. This event is how we give back, to those who give so much for us. It is a day for thanks, and gratitude to those in our community who keep us in mind, whether this is in a big or small way. We try to recognize everyone who is a part of it, in any way we can, giving to those people, and other people in need. This is what Triton Gives Back means to me." - Avery Faulkner

9th Grader

" Triton Gives Back is an opportunity for students to serve their community in a series of projects. Some students serve the community within the school and others go to further places to help the community. It is a memorable experience to the students and the people they help and helps students understand the importance of community service. It teaches people the difference a few students can make just by helping others."- Mckenna Yarbrough

10th Grader

"Triton Gives Back is a time to give back to the community that supports us. I think it is a great idea for multiple reasons. It is a time to do good for people in need.  Whether it's packing supplies for wounded soldiers, or spending time with senior citizens, Triton Gives Back is a great community event."- Max Ritchison

11th Grader

"Triton Gives Back gives students the opportunity to help the surrounding community. To me, Triton Gives Back is a time of joy and learning. This school year, I will be going to Miller's Assisted Living to talk, play games and interact with residents."- Owen Waymouth

12th Grader

"What Triton Gives Back means to me is fundamentally the ability to benefit my community and provide to individuals who are in need. I believe that it is an important event as you are able to show compassion towards others. Compassion is an extraordinarily essential life skill we could all use, especially with each other. Participating in Triton Gives Back not only benefits the community but also enriches everyone involved. I’m thankful for the opportunity to be involved in it, as it's a great feeling to be able to help others."-Fidel Gonzalez 

Life lessons are rarely taught in schools these days, but the Triton staff, volunteers and students are all teaching the rest of us what it truly means to create a better world.  I’m sure the insights gained by students who participated in Triton’s Give Back Day 2024 will be remembered, not only by the students, but for everyone’s lives these folks have touched. 

Pics:   1. Kindergarteners make dog treats for MC Humane Society    2. A student who goes by:  Junior Popenfoose checks out a local cow     3. Students play cards with elderly folks    4. Fireman chat with students regarding becoming a firefighter

By:  Robin Myers & Sarrah Arvesen