Hop Aboard the School Bus Express

Volunteers are already planning for the 2008-09 school year with Townewest Elementary School. On June 15, look for the "Tree of Learning" in the Narthex with lists of needed school supplies for at-risk children in each grade level. Select an envelope from the tree and purchase the listed supplies and a backpack. Return the completed backpack to the church no later than July 13. Volunteers are needed to help with final packing on August 15, and distribution to the students on August 17. For more information, contact Kay Easterling, 281.494.3466 or Kip Johnson, 281.634.8922.

Townewest Partnership

Sugar Land Methodist enjoys a special partnership with Townewest Elementary, a Ft. Bend ISD school in our community, where 70% of the students are considered at risk. In addition to offering school supplies, backpacks and haircuts to 300 children attending Townewest, Sugar Land Methodist has also spearheaded a beautification project at the school, resulting in new flower beds and plantings throughout the campus.

Our most recent workday included weeding and trimming all the flower beds, assembling 24 classroom carts, moving and assembling bookcases in the library, building and painting 4 new bookshelves, and replenishing the sand in the kindergarten play area.

We host staff development days for the teachers and administrators, send birthday cards to the teachers, provide teacher appreciation gifts throughout the school year, offer Upward Basketball scholarships, and offer opportunities for members to become mentors and tutors at the school. During spring testing times, our prayer ministry prays for each student by name. Starting this year, we are participating in "Boxtops for Education", a program that allows Townewest to raise money for special projects and needs.

We are thankful for this partnership that allows us to witness to God's love in our community.