Community Award: Krista Kolich and Mina Riazi

Teachers at University Parks Mason Community Learning Center, Krista Kolich and Mina Riazi work as a team to provide a strong link between their school and its benefactor, First Congregational Church, also located in the University Park neighborhood. Thanks to the dedication of Mrs. Kolich and Ms. Riazi, First Congregational Church continues to grow its outreach to the children and families of University Park. The teacher team is responsible for coordinating many programs with the church including holiday donations of coats, gloves, hats, books, toys, games and teaching supplies, tutoring in reading and math, and monthly pizza parties for every student with perfect attendance. In addition, the teachers work with the church to provide bikes for monthly drawings for students with perfect attendance and also bicycles at the schools end-of-the-year awards assembly for students who have excelled in attendance, academics and citizenship. Student attendance has improved dramatically in response to these programs. The teachers also work with the church to provide assistance for students to attend summer camp and sponsors end of summer field trips to a variety of destinations, including the Akron Zoo and Hale Farm and Village. According to Principal Stephanie Churn, Mrs. Kolich and Mr. Riazi extend themselves beyond their professional duties, seven days a week, acting as liaisons to the church. They represent the families of University Park with unconditional love and generosity.

Category:

Nonprofits & Activism

Tags:

• Mason
• Teachers