Written by: Emme Reid
With only one more week working for SPSEF, I can’t help but feel sad that this chapter is about to come to a close. Walking in on my first day, I never knew how excited I would be to walk in the office. I honestly didn’t know what to expect, but little did I know I would absolutely love it.
I could feel the butterflies in my stomach flapping their wings on my way in my first day. As I walked in the office, I received welcomes and smiles from all over. Chris, Kelsey, and Guadalupe immediately made me feel welcomed and a part of the team. By the end of the day, I knew I had ended up just where I belonged.
Growing up in a private Christian School before coming to college, the world of public education was completely new to me. Learning about Springdale Public Schools and the many, moving parts behind the Foundation has opened my eyes in more ways than I could have ever imagined. It’s given me a much deeper understanding and appreciation for the people working behind the scenes and making sure that every child can succeed, both in and out of the classroom.
My time here has been everything and more than I could have ever imagined. I’ve never been bored, and I always get to work on something new each day. I love the variety of work that I get to do, and I am so thankful for the opportunities to learn and try new things that I would never have gotten to do otherwise.
I’ve gotten to create social media graphics and posts, learn how to update a website page, help prepare for and promote the biggest duck race in Arkansas, try new restaurants in Springdale (P.S., if you haven’t been to World’s Best Java & Pies, RUN, don’t walk!), form and strengthen relationships with my bosses and coworkers—and most importantly—helped SPSEF further their mission of helping provide every child in Springdale with an education.
Leaving is not going to be easy, but I’m leaving with my head full of amazing memories and my heart filled with gratitude. This has been a summer I will never forget. I feel incredibly lucky to have been part of a team that makes such a meaningful impact, and have showed me what it is truly like to serve a community.
