In the news:
After the storm: Pasadena ISD receives
helping hand from Arlington school district

Students and staff in the Pasadena Independent School District were quick to help those affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

Now, Pasadena ISD has received a helping hand in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike.

The Arlington Independent School District launched a fundraising effort among all students and staff and recently donated $7,475 to Pasadena ISD, along with five pallets of school supplies.

"We are very grateful for this kind gesture," said Dr. Kirk Lewis, Pasadena ISD superintendent. "This is a true act of kindness and we are thankful to Arlington ISD for what they've done."

Called the "District2District Initiative," Arlington campuses, student organizations and clubs, and central office staff collected school supplies and cash donations for two weeks. Arlington ISD adopted Pasadena ISD and pledged to offer support as the Pasadena community begins to rebuild after Hurricane Ike.

"We are glad that we could help Pasadena ISD," said Veronica Sopher, Arlington ISD's director of public information. "Everyone was so eager to help and very quick to act."

After Hurricane Ike stormed into the area on Sept. 13, the damage to Pasadena campuses kept school out of session for almost two weeks. When classes resumed, many students needed basic school supplies.

"Three years ago, our students and staff members took it upon themselves to help those affected by Katrina and Rita. Now, to be the recipient of the same type of aid is very humbling and it means so much to us and our kids. We appreciate the students and staff of Arlington ISD and cannot thank them enough for their generosity."