CONWAY, Ark. — School's out, but that doesn't mean the learning has to stop.
Teachers at Theodore Jones Elementary School in Conway formed a caravan and visiting students' homes with a trunk load of educational gifts.
1st grade teacher Melissa Spence started the initiative last summer in hopes of keeping students educated during the break.
"My first grade team and I were driving around a neighborhood just on our way to a store and we saw our students playing in a street," Spence said.
Now, the school sends forms home before summer vacation allowing parents to opt into the program.
"I know what kids need just based on, you know, what I know about child development and what I've learned from my training. But, they're with them every day all day and, you know, we've all worried about the regression over the summer," principal Tammy Woosley said.
Every Wednesday in July, faculty members will deliver books and activities to kids.
They're able to do this thanks to donations for the books.
"Doing this is really important to me because it allows us to see our students during the summer when normally we would not be able to come into their neighborhoods and be a part of their community," Spence said.
Not only does it keep kids' minds active, but it also builds a sense of community.
"Putting books in their hands is really important. The student we just saw, the big sister said 'pick a book that you would like if you can't read it I'll read it to you and we can read it together. And so, that's what it's all about. Getting families together," Spence said.
If you'd like to get involved you can contact Principal Woosley at woosleyt@conwayschools.net.