8th Grade Goes to Op Shop

The 8th grade FCS class is making a difference in our community by going to the Op Shop. The Op Shop is a non-profit organization that serves adults with developmental disabilities. It was started in 1983 to address the need for a day program for adults with disabilities. The Op Shop believes that every person with a developmental disability has the right to live, learn, and work in the most normal environment possible. While at the Op Shop, adults have the opportunity to earn a paycheck by doing jobs such as preparing bulk mailings and making craft items that are sold at the Op Shop store. The adults develop their life skills at the Op Shop, which paves the way for future employment.

Our guidance counselor, Mrs. Tina Glanzer, made it possible for the students to visit the Op Shop. Mrs. Glanzer has made it her personal project to get kids out into the community and broaden their worldviews. Having a brother-in-law who is a member of the Op Shop, Mrs. Glanzer used that connection to create a program for the 8th grade FCS class. While at the Op Shop, the 8th graders interact with the residents by doing crafts or playing games together. Mrs. LuAnn Bender, the FCS teacher, said, "Some people who I think are going to be the most uncomfortable end up being the most comfortable working with the people and enjoying themselves a lot." The class is split into a guys' and girls' section and each section goes to the Op Shop twice a semester. Though it may seem like a small deed to the students 8th Grade class, the relationships that are developed are making a difference.

- Rose Jantzi (photo by Mrs. Glanzer)