By SBCISD STAFF
This year, Thanksgiving was very different for everyone.
Social distancing and the precautionary safety measures in place did not deter students and staff, along with county and local officials, to serve those in need throughout our community.
With a heart full of gratitude, the San Benito High School varsity boys basketball team and their coach, Jared Bligh, purchased turkeys and basketballs to give away to some of our local students and their families. The team also designated the students as “Honorary Team Captains.”
In the spirit of Thanksgiving and in partnership with the staff of Judge Oscar De La Fuente Elementary, the gift baskets included stuffing, canned foods, and other food products to prepare a complete Thanksgiving meal.
“These players know that sports is about more than just preparing for and playing in games. They showed that making a difference in the lives of others is what it’s all about,” said Coach Bligh.
“Our hope is that they continue to grow as men of high character and become leaders in this community,” he added.
“This experience made me appreciate all that I have been blessed with. I really enjoyed being able to give back to families that could benefit from the gift basket,” stated Senior Joseph Sanchez.
“Seeing the smiles on the children’s faces and knowing they were going to have a complete Thanksgiving meal to eat for the holiday was a very emotional moment. It was a great experience for the team, and I’m glad we were able to help,” added Junior Paul Rendon.
District wide, teachers shared with students the history of Thanksgiving honoring the early settlers and Native Americans who came together to have a historic harvest feast. Students hand-made native American feathered headbands, pilgrim hats, bonnets, and scarecrows.
“The children were excited to celebrate what they have been thankful for during this pandemic. We were all happy to feel some normalcy in the classroom celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday. Our Fine Arts teacher, Leslie Whittemore, was gracious enough to provide the Pilgrim and Native American attire and backdrop,” shared Ed Downs Fine Arts Academy second grade teachers, Elizabeth Treviño, Amanda Rubalcaba, and Maria A. Peña-Gonzalez.
