Sandy Hook School ‘Adopts’ A Soldier

By Larissa Lytwyn

As the Iraqi occupation continues, Sandy Hook School carries on its now-monthly deliveries of spirit-boosting goods to American servicemen and women stationed in Iraq — particularly 20-year-old airman Sean Kelley, a 2000 Newtown High School graduate.

“Sean is a friend of my son Patrick,” explained first grade teacher Lynn Monahan. “I’ve known Sean since he was 8.”

The idea to “adopt” Sean was inspired by the town’s seasonal “Adopt a Family” program.

Teachers suggested sending soldiers supplies including toiletries, batteries, playing cards, books, magazines, notepaper, writing utensils, light athletic equipment including footballs, and snack items.

Other items included cameras, Sandy Hook School T-shirts, sweatshirts, and even a Newtown hat.

“The support has been wonderful,” said Ms Monahan. “Over 2,000 items have been collected since we began the drive just before our December holiday break.”

“We have so much to send that we are sending packages each month,” added teacher Kristen Mattera.

In addition to donating various commodities, students have written the soldiers cards and letters.

“It’s incredible to see how insightful these 6 and 7-year-olds are!” declared Ms Mattera. “They ask questions ranging from what life is like there to the weather. They also tell them how proud they are of them, and they thank them for serving our country!”

Others shared stories about relatives’ involvement in the military.

“My dad was in the Navy,” said first grader Jessica Keller.

Another student, Zachary Aumueller, discussed his “Poppy’s” experience in the Korean War.

In an educational technique encouraging older students to work with younger ones, first graders designed Valentine’s Day cards for service men and women with the school’s third grade class.

Sean’s mother, Wendy, said her son has matured and developed in many positive ways since enlisting in the Air Force two years ago this April.

“After graduating from high school, he wasn’t quite sure what he wanted to do,” she explained. “He looked at all his options, including going right to a university or community college, and decided he wanted to go into the Air Force.”

Sean is currently stationed at the Balad Air Base in Iraq.

“However, he is likely to be transferred back to England, where he was originally stationed, next month,” Ms Kelley said. “Hopefully, he will come back [to the United States] in May.”

The actions of Sandy Hook School, which Sean attended, touch Ms Kelley.

“I am so grateful for all this support,” she said.

Sean corresponds regularly with friends and family in Newtown, including Ms Monahan and her son Patrick, as well as his student pals at Sandy Hook School.

“This experience has really inspired me as an educator,” said Ms Monahan. “It gives us a real [world] view.”

Ms Mattera agreed. “I’ve really been impressed with the quality of our students’ writing,” she said. “Just the things they say at such a young age! It’s wonderful.”