Students Give Thanks
Thanksgiving and the holiday season offer a time to reflect, give back, and foster joy values embraced at Excel Academies in Philadelphia during recent celebrations and initiatives. From baking fun to meaningful community service, the schools offered opportunities for highlighting gratitude, generosity, and togetherness.
Excel Academy South began the festivities with a pie-baking competition, showcasing staff’s culinary talents. Ten entries vied for the top spot, with Site Coordinator Jessica McCreary’s strawberries and cream pie earning first place. Steven Griffin, a team leader from Excel Academy Central, served as the judge. The event celebrated Thanksgiving traditions and strengthened community bonds.
Excel Academy Central extended the spirit of giving by participating in local radio hosts Preston & Steve’s Camp Out for Hunger, an annual food drive benefiting Philabundance, a hunger relief organization. The academy organized its own food drive, collecting over 500 cans of food. This effort, part of the senior service-learning project, taught students the value of giving back while supporting families in need.
To boost participation, Excel Academy Central offered an incentive: for every three donated food items, staff and students earned a casual dress-down day. This creative approach blended fun with philanthropy, inspiring generous contributions.
Decked out in festive attire, Erin Kelly, Jarrad Muller, and Jennifer Green from Excel Academy Central made the holiday extra special by serving students a Thanksgiving celebration lunch.
The success of this “Cause We Care” initiative was driven by the dedication of the student services department, led by Erin Kelly and Anthony Trapani.
“These two exceptional individuals work tirelessly to support both our students and the community, ensuring that every effort is made to make a positive impact,” said Jarrad Muller, executive director of Excel Academy Central.
These events brought joy and inspired a spirit of giving that extends beyond the holiday season, demonstrating Excel Academies’ commitment to making a lasting impact on students and the Philadelphia community.