LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — A social media post from a former Jefferson County Public Schools principal has drawn millions of views and prompted local churches to adopt schools, supplying students with items that traditional backpack drives often leave out.
Former JCPS principal Michelle Pennix challenged the community to shift its focus from backpack giveaways to removing daily barriers students face before they ever sit down to learn. She listed items many drives skip but schools need, including laundry supplies, hygiene kits, hair care products and extra clothes — items many families cannot afford. More than half of JCPS students are living in poverty.
"Coming to school not smelling the best, coming to school and you haven't had the chance to brush your teeth are really things that affect kids' confidence and therefore their learning," Pennix said.
Churches adopt local schools
The post drew the attention of Alyce French Johnson, pastor of Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church. The church adopted two schools — Hudson Middle and Shawnee High School — and purchased supplies for both.
"It's rough out here. We want to be the wind beneath JCPS educators, administrators and the kids," French Johnson said.
What schools say they need most
Yvonne Gales, student community liaison at Hudson Middle, provided the church with a list of items her school and students need.
"One of the most important things — you wouldn't believe it — was toilet paper. I did have parents ask for it last school year," Gales said.
Gales said the donations are filling a significant gap for students and families at her school.
Churches across the area have adopted schools through the effort. BeyondBackpacks is hosting a donation day Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Baxter Community Center.
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