Helen Keller Middle School raised $8,580 for Mikey’s Way Foundation, which will be used to stock a cart filled with laptops and tablets to make a significant impact on the lives of children facing cancer treatments at Smilow Cancer Hospital.
The money was raised during a month of events that culminated in a rededication ceremony of the school on March 28.
The rededication ceremony brought together various distinguished guests, including Principal Steven Clapp, Assistant Principal Anne Mohr, state representatives Anne Hughes and Tony Scott, Senator Tony Hwang, Superintendent Dr. Jason McKinnon, Assistant Superintendent Sara Scrofani, Mikey’s parents Les and Cathy Friedman, as well as members of the Board of Education and Board of Selectmen.
Hwang praised the school’s efforts, stating, “Helen Keller Middle School has not only embodied its namesake but continues to demonstrate the impact that one individual can have in uplifting the lives of people, by honoring Mikey’s Way Foundation.”
The Connecticut House of Representatives also recognized the staff’s and students’ dedication. Hughes and Scott read a tribute on behalf of the House: “Your school and staff have helped inspire and influence generations to empower their own potential and aspirations.”
Students participated with speeches and a flash dance mob, celebrating the month of March being filled with “Mikey’s Madness” at the school.
Mikey’s father also shared a speech with the students, “The caring, the giving, and the uplifting that Mikey represented, I see in so many of you,” said Les Friedman.
Friedman also imparted a lesson from his son, “If there is one message that I can bring to you from Mikey that he would want you to carry forward is this, always be a force for good and always lift others up.”
Through their collective efforts, HKMS has demonstrated the power of support in the Easton community—and the ability to make a real difference for children facing cancer.
