Sherman Elementary pilots 'Get Ready Room'; student leader recognized by state board group

Connor Brown received a recognition from the New York State School Boards Association at the Watertown City School District board meeting and thanked the district and community partners for backing a student-led hygiene initiative. "So, I just wanna say thank you to Sandy and the Board of Education," he said.

Sherman Elementary leaders used the board meeting to highlight a new Get Ready Room pilot intended to offer a morning "soft landing" for students who need basic hygiene or clothing help before classes start. School staff described the space as a boutique-style area where hygiene kits and donated clothing are stored by size and students use an assigned hygiene bag to take care of morning needs. The school named staff leading the pilot and several community partners who donated items.

Heidi Williams, a member of the Jefferson County Hygiene Collective who said she experienced "hygiene poverty" as a child, urged the district to expand the rooms. "Basic hygiene is not a luxury. It is essential," Williams said, describing how such supports can protect student dignity, improve attendance and help children be ready to learn.

Superintendent Dr. Larry Schmeagel told the board the district is piloting the program at Sherman and another building and praised the community donations that have stocked the rooms. The board also acknowledged several donors across multiple agenda items, including monetary gifts and winter clothing from local organizations.

The presentation included student voices and a choral performance; board members praised the pilot and asked staff to continue reporting results as the program expands across the district.