Halloween at the Knox Learning Center in Mount Vernon was marked by a community trick-or-treat event that extended beyond distributing candy, highlighting local support for the school.
A group of about twelve representatives from various local organizations, including the Mount Vernon police and fire departments, joined staff to hand out treats on the school playground. Art teacher Kim Aritonovich, who organized the midday gathering, said, “This is wonderful support from the community. Our staff and students appreciate these individuals taking time out of their busy days to be with us.”
Participants included Coty Shellenbarger, Jason VanHouse and Kevin Lisbon from the Mount Vernon Fire Department; Officer Coffey from the Mount Vernon Police Department; Nancy Bevan of Community Roots; Madison Rechel, Julia Rine and Heather Petersen from New Directions; Melody Blanchard representing juvenile probation; Erin Salva as Arch Community Garden coordinator; and independent volunteers Kathy Wentland and Pat Kaiser. Some visitors arrived in costume with bags of treats for students. Staff members also contributed candy.
Leftover treats were distributed by Aritonovich to neighborhood children outside the school on Friday evening.
The Knox Learning Center operates as a K-12 alternative school within the former Mount Vernon West Elementary building. It is managed by the Knox Educational Service Center and serves students from Knox County and nearby districts who face challenges learning in traditional educational settings.
