MOUNT VERNON – The Knox Learning Center is more than a welcoming environment for students whose special needs prevent them from succeeding in their home schools.

The center is a beacon of hope and friendship on Mount Vernon’s far west side.

On Nov. 22, the last day before the holiday break, the Learning Center prepared and served its annual Thanksgiving meal.

“We served about 150 students, family members, representatives from the schools we serve and staff,” said art teacher Kim Aritonovich, one of the event’s organizers.

“Students learned the basics of the Thanksgiving meal, making homemade noodles, green bean casserole, corn stuffing, desserts and more. Students also made decorations for the classrooms as we welcomed families back into the building to eat with us.”

Operated by the Knox Educational Service Center, the K-12 school is located in Mount Vernon’s former West Side Elementary. 

Donations for the Thanksgiving celebration were made by Baker’s IGA, Stein Brewing Company, Lanning’s Meats and Bob Evans Restaurant.

“The community has graciously supported us, so we in turn wanted to give back to the community,” Aritonovich said. “All of the leftovers went to the city fire station near us.”