Tahlequah students honored for Interact Club service; sponsors, donors credited

Tahlequah Public Schools on Dec. 16 recognized student leaders from the Interact Club for an expanding slate of community service projects.

Lori Freeman, identified in the meeting as the club sponsor, told the board the club began in February with 15 members “and as of today, we have a 102.” Students and sponsors described nine service projects since August, including food-bag distributions, Rotary holiday baskets, Toys for Tots participation and an Operation Christmas Child shipment. Freeman said Chota Behavioral Health and the Rotary each donated $500 to support those efforts.

Student co-presidents Vivian and Eva spoke about leadership training and community engagement that helped drive membership. One student noted the club set a goal of 10 Operation Christmas Child boxes and instead filled “a 101 boxes,” a result sponsors said reflected broad student participation.

School administrators said the Interact Club has partnered with district programs to distribute clothing and hygiene items, run a backpack program and support robotics. The board and attendees praised the students’ service and the community donors who contributed to classroom furniture and student supports.

The recognition took place during the board’s regular meeting; no formal board action was required. The district said the club’s activities are ongoing and highlighted plans for continued service next year.