The morning of Tuesday, February 25, 2025 was brisk. Not quite above freezing yet, but not below zero, as had been the case the week before. The forecast had highs reaching the upper 50's in the afternoon, and this fact likely had middle school students throughout Sioux Falls thinking about what the appropriate attire for the day would look like. This makes the donation that Amazon gave to George McGovern Middle School students that much more poignant.
The Amazon WSD1 Delivery Station in Sioux Falls received an Amazon Gifts grant to buy a hooded sweatshirt, hat, and gloves for every George McGovern Middle School student. They partnered with the Sioux Falls Public Schools Education Foundation to learn how their grant funds could be used in the most effective way for the benefit of SFSD students. Charlyrae Nissen, site lead for WSD1 Delivery Station in Sioux Falls, said it's all part of being a good neighbor. "It was important for us to identify where we could make the most impact and fill a need. The partnership we have with Allison (Struck) and the Education Foundation points us to where we can make the most difference."
Allison Struck, executive director of the Education Foundation, says that community partnerships like these are crucial. "Businesses, individuals, foundations, volunteer groups, all come together to support students. Sometimes we take it for granted that every student is able to get up and put on the appropriate attire for the weather that day, and we know that's not always the case. We worked with GMMS staff to identify clothing that we know students will wear." It is common knowledge amongst parents of teens and tweens that getting your child to put a coat on, no matter the weather, is sometimes an uphill battle. But a hoodie? That might be a piece of apparel that has a lot more appeal to this specific age group. Subtle, detailed, and informed decisions like these are part of why partnering with the Education Foundation makes so much sense. Community partnerships are a crucial part of what allows SFSD schools to truly thrive, and having community partners like Amazon goes a long way in ensuring the best for each student.