Haverhill High School students recently celebrated a remarkable achievement at the Topsfield Fair, where they won multiple awards, including the prestigious Metcalf Memorial Award for the most blue ribbons. Nancy Burke, an educational support professional at Haverhill High, shared the exciting news during the Haverhill School Committee meeting on November 21, 2024.

Burke highlighted that every student in the Aim Reach program participated in the fair, showcasing their creativity through various entries, including pumpkins and posters. This event marked a significant milestone, as many students experienced seeing farm animals for the first time. The fair provided not only educational opportunities but also a chance for students to enjoy a day filled with fun and learning, culminating in a bus ride where they joyfully sang "Sweet Caroline."

In addition to the fair, Burke discussed ongoing initiatives at the school, including the establishment of Cinderella's Closet, which aims to provide formal wear for students attending prom and other events. This year, the closet will expand to include winter clothing, addressing the needs of students facing food insecurity and lack of proper attire. Burke expressed gratitude for community support, including donations of gowns and suits, which have made a significant impact.

The meeting also touched on the Backpack 68 program, a collaboration with the Salvation Army that provides students with backpacks filled with food, including fresh bread and other essentials. Currently, 30 students benefit from this program, which aims to alleviate food insecurity among students.

Burke's passionate presentation underscored the importance of community involvement in supporting Haverhill students. She encouraged anyone interested in donating clothing or assisting with these initiatives to reach out to the high school. The meeting concluded with a call for donations of clothing racks and shelving to help organize Cinderella's Closet, further enhancing the support available to students in need.