For the past two and a half years, I have taught many children about different topics on Health & Safety and Disaster Preparedness. It might be Scrubby Bear, Twister Turtle, or Safe on My Own. Many times I find myself at the same location, Oakville Elementary. Oakville Elementary is located two exits from the JB Bridge off of Yaeger Rd., in South County. When walking through the hall, I feel as though I am part of the faculty and staff. Students and teachers greet me with a smile and, “How are you, Ms. Kiefer?” or the children will often say, “Are you coming to our class today to teach?”

For the past three school years, I have watched the children grow, and tested their knowledge to see how much they have learned from our American Red Cross classroom presentations. The students and staff love the topics that are presented and seem to enjoy my presence in the building. There are many times where I pop my head into the nurse’s office to say hello and see how Ms. Lanham is doing. Oftentimes, she is busy helping children that are either hurt or sick, but sometimes in between we do get to catch up on how we are both doing. It is a great feeling knowing that the students and staff have learned a great deal of knowledge about the American Red Cross and how to be safe. In return I have received many hugs and “thank yous” from students and staff and that has made me feel like I have a little Oakville Tiger spirit in me.

Corrine

Corrine Kiefer is the Ready School Associate for the American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter.