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For Immediate Release
Linwood Lions Get Outdoor Classroom
Oklahoma City —
On the heels of a new playground,
Oklahoma City’s Linwood Elementary now has an outdoor classroom, thanks
to the Sisters of Mercy. So on beautiful Oklahoma days, students will
get a chance to study science or art outside, enjoy music concerts or
even plan a special class picnic.
The $15,000 covered pavilion was a gift from the
Sisters of Mercy of the Americas—the founders of Mercy Health Center and
the Sisters of Mercy. Besides providing a place for many student
activities, the pavilion will also be used by the community for
neighborhood and family outings.
“Mercy has provided many opportunities to Linwood,”
said Susan Combs, Linwood’s principal. “Two years ago, Mercy built a new
playground for our students, and now we have a beautiful outdoor
classroom. The outreach, support and kindness Mercy provides is
invaluable to our students, parents and staff. We are very thankful.”
For three years now, Mercy has partnered with
Linwood. More than 50 Mercy co-workers dedicate an hour each week to
tutor a Linwood Elementary student. Mercy has also provided furnishings,
school supplies, neighborhood health fairs and various grants that have
given staff members pocket money for additional educational tools.
Next on the list: a walking track that will be used
both by students and the community.
“Mercy has embraced us and it makes all the
difference,” said Combs. “We have an outdoor classroom that would never
have been feasible without Mercy’s help. But beyond the pavilion and
playground, Mercy co-workers show up every week and mentor our kids,
helping them with reading and math. They have served as positive role
models for our children.”
With 340 students from preschool to fifth grade, 56
percent of the students are Hispanic and 94 percent receive free
lunches.
“As far as Oklahoma is concerned, the Sisters have
been devoted since 1884 when five Sisters of Mercy made a long trek in a
covered wagon into Indian Territory to organize schools and care for
children and women wherever there was need,” said Di Smalley, president
and CEO of Mercy Health System of Oklahoma. “Besides providing the
playground and outdoor classroom and upcoming walking track, the Mercy
mentors project has been a great opportunity for our co-workers to meet
the needs of our community. We love being partners with Linwood.”
Press release dated: March 5, 2008
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