A Calming Retreat for Pierce Middle School Teachers, and So Much More
As we begin the 2025–2026 school year, we’re taking a moment to celebrate the meaningful impact we had during our partnership last year with Pierce Middle School, including one very special space created just for the educators who give so much of themselves every day.
This past year, we were proud to help bring a dedicated Relaxation Room to life, a peaceful retreat where teachers can take a moment to rest, reset, and recharge. Teaching is one of the most demanding and essential professions, and we wanted to help create a space that honors the well-being of those who support students every single day.
The vision for this space came to life with the help of the incredibly talented students from the Interior Decorating Services program at Pinellas Technical College, led by their instructor, Kelly Jackson. Their creativity, thoughtfulness, and hard work transformed an ordinary room into a welcoming oasis of calm.
We’d like to thank the students who poured their hearts into this project: Brianna Keene, Zoe Loman, Anissa Mathis-Taylor, Isaac Audu, Natalie Shumsky, Mariya Mostovykh, Sierra McNiece, Lucas Chamberlin, Zandeya Peace, Beth Harris, Owen Donaldson, Dafny Lainez, and Mara Baer. Your efforts created something truly meaningful, a daily reminder for teachers that their well-being matters too.
But our support didn’t stop there. Throughout the year, we were honored to come alongside Pierce in other ways to uplift both students and staff, including:
- Holiday gifts for every staff member, a small way to express big gratitude
- Holiday gifts for students in need, making the season a little brighter
- Backpacks and school supplies to help students start strong
- Another fun-filled field trip, giving students a chance to explore beyond the classroom
- A joyful visit from Honey’s Mini Therapy Adventures, spreading smiles and comfort
- Staff appreciation gifts to recognize the everyday heroes walking their halls
- And a Busch Gardens field trip for the 8th grade class, a memorable send-off to summer
The thank-you card we received from the school was filled with gratitude and smiles. A perfect way to close out an unforgettable year.
And while Pierce Middle will always hold a special place in our hearts, we’re excited to share that our next school adoption for 2025–2026 will be Woodbridge Elementary. We can’t wait to begin this new chapter of support and connection.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this year so impactful. With each project, field trip, and partnership, we’re reminded of the power of community and the importance of showing up for those who show up for our kids every day.
