Candy Donations Lead To Sweet Rewards For Mexico Students

by Submitted article | November 7, 2017 3:02 pm

MEXICO – Mexico Elementary School students collected some sweet treats even after Halloween.

Several students participated in the library media center’s inaugural Candy Buy Back program where students received one free book for every piece of candy they brought in.

For every 25 pieces, they could select a brand new book. Librarian Dianne Barnes said the program was an unexpected success with five copy paper boxes full of 118.8 pounds of candy.

The sweets will be sent to the Oswego Veterans of Foreign Wars post 5885, who will keep chocolates and other candy that could melt for their banquets, parties or veterans recovering in medical facilities.

Remaining candy will be distributed to current military members who are deployed in harm’s way so they can provide the goodies to local children to help them understand that American troops aren’t dangerous.

Barnes said she was elated with the program’s success throughout just three school days.

“I thought that this would be a great way to get books in the hands of kids,” she said. “I never imagined they’d be so sparked for new books and reading.”

Thanks to a collection of discarded books, gently-used books, old curriculum books and encyclopedias, about 500 books were awarded to students.

“We love books!” said first grader Tyler Vecchio, who browsed the third -grade reading level chapter books.

Barnes said she got the idea for the Candy Buy Back program from New Haven Elementary School teacher Brianne Hartmann who had used previously the program for various rewards such as a homework pass or extra iPad time in her classroom.

Source URL: https://oswegocountytoday.com/community/candy-donations-lead-to-sweet-rewards-for-mexico-students/

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