November 4, 2009

Dr. Knox Builds Possibilities Brick by Brick

KELOWNA, BC: On November 6 at 5:30 p.m., staff and Social Justice students at Dr. Knox will host an international potluck and talent show benefiting Brick by Brick, an intiative of Free the Children. Organizers are hoping the community will come out for a night of good food and enterainment to raise $4,300—the amount remaining in their quest to build a small school in Kenya. Since June 2008, they have collected $4,200 toward their goal of $8,500.

From all the various charitable projects available, the decision to fund a school in Kenya was a natural choice. “The students wanted to build in Kenya because they thought it would be appropriate since our school was recently rebuilt,” says teacher Jasmine Lemon. “We enjoy such as great, modern facility; it is a stark contrast to poor nations around the world where children are fortunate just to have a roof on their school, a desk to sit at, or the opportunity for basic education. Another reason students selected this project is that issues in Kenya are covered in our curriculum.”

In 2008, students held their first Brick by Brick potluck and showed a documentary about building the school. This year, organizers have added student performances.

“All are welcome at this family-friendly event, which will feature delicious, global cuisine and entertaining performances from talented Dr. Knox students,” says Lemon. “As well, stylish Indonesian jewellery will be for sale.”

Each family or group who attends is asked to bring an international dish (entree or dessert) to share. Admission is a minimum $10 donation. People who would like to attend are asked to RSVP as soon as possible by emailing Jasmine Lemon (jlemon@sd23.bc.ca).

Approved by the Superintendent and Jasmine Lemon on November 4, 2009

__________________________________________________________________________________________

For comments, please contact:

Jasmine Lemon, Teacher, Dr. Knox Middle School, (250) 762-8177

Daryl Graf, Principal, Dr. Knox Middle School, (250) 762-8177

Hugh Gloster, Superintendent of Schools, (250) 860-8888

For background information, please contact Lisa Harrison lharriso@sd23.bc.ca or 470-3284.