The last day of school in December ranks second only to the last day of school in June to many students.  This “last day,” however, might be even better for students at Firestone Park Elementary School. 

When you hear Santa Claus’ bells jingling and the familiar, “Ho, ho, ho,” echoing through the hallways of the old school building, how can it be anything but good? 

It got better.

All 401 students were surprised with gift bags containing books and candy, plus a pizza party for every classroom.  Santa had a little help from GPD Group, an architectural firm headquartered in Akron. 

“We enjoy doing it,” said GPD Executive Vice President Darrin Kotecki.  “The kids are real appreciative and I think our employees get more out of it than the kids.”

Firestone Park Elementary School Principal Joan Thompson talks more about the relationship with GPD Group in the slideshow below:

The holiday project is hardly a one-time offering.  Kotecki says about 25 employees volunteer at the school each week as part of the AkronReads program.  From that, they developed a relationship that has resulted in the company making purchases for the school, including $19,000 worth of multi-media equipment. 

The effort doesn’t go unnoticed. 

“It’s all about giving and teaching kids how to give and receive and be thankful,” said Firestone Park Elementary School Principal Joan Thompson, who acknowledges that the gifts handed out today may be the only ones received by some of the students.

Thompson says parents are very involved in the school and believes that their support plus the additional community involvement helps build confidence that’s easily measured by student achievement. 

Speaking of surprises, Thompson says teachers were astonished to receive gift bags as well – each containing a present and a $100 gift card.