Edith I. Starke Elementary

Edith I. Starke Elementary School, located in DeLand, FL, is proud to have continued our partnership with Food Brings Hope’s KidsZone program.  The FBH program supports our goal of meeting challenges by building on the strengths and diversity of our community.

Starke Elementary School’s KidsZone group consisted of approximately 30 students, grades 4 and 5. Students were selected by classroom teachers and then approved by Mr. Copeland, the principal, as well as Mrs. Fontaine and Mr. Senez, the club sponsors.

During weekly meetings, which included social skill development, goal setting, community building, team building activities, accountability initiatives, gardening, and snacks, students worked together to build on and instill positive traits in themselves, as well as others on our campus and in our community.

Grades, attendance and conduct improved from the beginning of the school year to the end of the school year, in regards to students in KidsZone. Our school academic and discipline data suggests that the fourth-graders in KidsZone made the most academic improvement, while the fifth graders made the most behavioral improvement. Food Brings Hope has continuously worked with our school to provide programs like KidsZone, provide groceries for families in need, provide funding for school and community beautification, as well as a warm smile and a hug to the students who’ve had an opportunity to encounter any of the FBH representatives.

A few highlights from some of the activities include our Assistant Principal, Mrs. Ahr, scoring a touchdown in her first ever flag football game at Starke Elementary School, with KidsZone; the Daytona State College Winter Concert at the News-Journal Center; the always popular Embry-Riddle Basketball Game and pep-talk from the coach and players; as well as a bowling extravaganza; rounded out with the Food Brings Hope end of the year celebration dinner and talent show!

Edith I Starke Elementary School is a Title 1 school, with a 78% minority rate and a 98% Economically Disadvantaged Rate. All students at Starke Elementary School achieve success due to a diverse, caring, committed learning commitment of teachers, families, school support staff, and community partners, such as Food Brings Hope. We are thankful to be a part of anything associated with Food Brings Hope, and look forward to continuing our partnership next year, while continuing to help the students at Starke Elementary School rise!