Volunteers—and goats—serve a CSC partner school

On Friday, September 16th, volunteers from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation—and 15 goats—joined staff from CSC at Thorndyke Elementary School in Tukwila for a day of "Goats, Gates and (Reading) Gains!"

Goats at school?

The United Way of King County’s annual “Day of Caring” mobilizes thousands of volunteers each year to improve our community. When a team from the Gates Foundation approached CSC to serve during this year’s event, we asked our school partners about their needs.

Thorndyke Elementary expressed a desperate need for removal of invasive blackberry bushes on the school grounds. These bushes were a hazard to the children and an eyesore for neighbors. Our solution: delight the students by bringing in 15 goats from Amazin’ Grazers to eat through the bushes. The volunteers and staff followed behind to hack down branches and dig up roots.

As children flooded the school yard during recess, an interesting phenomenon occurred. Some kids were content to play and ignore the goats. Others spent their whole recess time staring. Likewise, some goats happily munched and took no notice of the children. Others were captivated by their curious onlookers.

“Read to me, please!”

One of the best parts of the day (and a much needed break!) occurred mid-afternoon. The Gates volunteers joined Thorndyke fourth graders to read stories about the natural world. In small groups, the students eagerly listened and asked questions. And the adults were able to connect with the children their hard labor would benefit.

When asked what she enjoyed most, Melissa Dillon, the project leader from the Gates Foundation, replied, “It was a toss-up between the goats and the kids.”

Thorndyke Principal Brian Hutchison added, “This was great fun for the kids, both watching the goats and interacting with the volunteers. This project was one of those things that seems small, but helps so much to make the school more attractive and safe. Everyone chipped in with a big smile, and we really appreciate it.”

Before ...    

             ...  and after!

Thank you, goats and Gates volunteers!