Every first Thursday of the month Hempstead High School athletics and student organizations wake up early to serve as door openers at Hempstead Elementary School.
The Welcome Squad/Big Brother mentorship program was created to help out younger learners get excited about school and see the various organizations they can be involved in once they get to high school.
“I believe that it is important to pour back into your community,” Athletics Director/Head Football Coach, Markeith Wesley, said. “The elementary students look up to the older students and I want to ensure that they can see our students and athletes not just on the field or court, but out in the community serving.”
Although the elementary students are surprised and excited to see the high school students on their campus, the high schoolers are just as excited.
“Welcoming the students to school is fun,” Hempstead High School varsity football player Quincy Jackson said. “They ask us questions about what it’s like to be in high school and of course they ask about playing football. It’s nice to connect with them and share our life experiences. I remember being their age and it is nice to have them look up to me.”
Student organizations including Football, FFA, Cheer, Volleyball, and Beta Club were represented.