In a shining example of the power of community and school partnerships, Midview Local Schools and the Grafton Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 3341 have joined forces to address a pressing issue for students and their families. Thanks to a generous donation from the Grafton VFW, Midview Local Schools have been able to significantly lower families’ outstanding student and meal fee balances.
Superintendent Dr. Frank Major shared the news of the $18,000 donation at the August 28 Midview Local Schools Board of Education Meeting. The funds were allocated as follows: $5,000 for meal balances and $13,000 for student fees. Each portion of the donation was evenly distributed among families with unpaid balances.
“There really aren’t enough words to express our gratitude to the Grafton VFW,” said Superintendent Dr. Major. “Their generosity not only addresses a critical financial need but also highlights the importance of community support in our educational mission. This donation will make a real difference in the lives of our students and their families.”
Since stepping into his new role as Superintendent, Dr. Major has placed a strong emphasis on building and strengthening partnerships with local businesses and organizations. In July, he visited the Grafton VFW Post 3341 during their monthly meeting to share the district’s progress and explore potential opportunities for collaboration.
The VFW, known for its dedication to community service, embraced the opportunity to support Middie families. VFW Post Commander Joe Dzurinda and Quarter Master Steve Rogers expressed the organization’s pride in contributing to the cause and their belief in the strength of community.
“I knew there was a need because of my own experiences growing up in a household where money was tight,” said Quartermaster Steve Rogers. “We wanted to have the greatest amount of impact on the community as we could, and it's an honor to be involved.”
The significant contribution will ease the financial burden for numerous families, allowing them to begin the new school year without concerns about outstanding fee balances. This collaborative effort underscores the power of community engagement and the impact that local organizations can have on education.
“We are immensely grateful for the ways in which our community rallies around our teachers, families, and students,” said Dr. Major. “Whether through financial contributions, materials, special projects, or volunteer efforts, our community support is truly unmatched. I encourage anyone interested in exploring partnership opportunities to reach out to me at the Board of Education. I look forward to connecting and discussing how we can create meaningful change and support the next generation of leaders.”