Three local Grade 8 students are taking action to address a pressing need within their school community. Kaylee Keane, Mikal Sanchez, and Jacob Pritchard have embarked on a mission to create a "Teen Closet" at Marlboro Middle School (MMS). This initiative is part of their Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) Students Taking Action with Recognition (STAR) project, which encourages leadership and community service among young students.
The Teen Closet is envisioned as a year-round resource, where MMS students in need can access essential items such as free clothing, shoes, and school supplies. "Imagine an open door to a place where students can access life's most critical essentials right within their school," said Kaylee, one of the project’s leaders. "Most of us need a helping hand at one point or another. The Teen Closet is our chance to ‘pay it forward’ and ensure that every student can focus on their education and future success."
To bring their vision to life, the students have organized a donation drive to collect gently used casual, professional, and dance-appropriate clothing, as well as shoes and unused school supplies. Donation boxes have been placed at the entrance of the Middle School, near the Main Office. While the drive will officially run until spring, donations are welcome year-round to ensure that the closet remains well stocked for students who need it. Additionally, with approval from MMS Principal Debra Clinton, a space in the school’s basement has been set aside for the Teen Closet. The students hope to officially open the closet before the end of the school year.
This March, the students will present their Teen Closet initiative as part of the FCCLA STAR competition. STAR events provide a platform for members to showcase their leadership and community service projects at the regional, state, and national levels.
"This project is not just about donations; it's also about fostering a culture of kindness and support among our students and the larger community," said Kaylee, Mikal, and Jacob. "Our goal is to create a space where everyone feels they belong and can access what they need to thrive."
The team is calling on MMS teachers, students, parents, and community members to contribute to this meaningful cause. For more information or to learn how you can support the Teen Closet initiative, contact the MMS main office at (845) 236-5840 and ask to speak with Chelsea Zehnacker, one of the advisors of FCCLA. You can also reach out to her by email at chelsea.zehnacker@marlboroschools.org.