Members of the Bethel High School class of 2020 have participated in the first annual Community Service Day.  Assistant Principal Mari Lerz was brought an idea from Applied Studies Department business teacher Jennipher Israelite, who used the program at her previous school. 

April 5th was testing day for upperclassmen, giving the freshman class an opportunity to serve the community without missing class.  Principal Chris Troetti says instead of staying home Wednesday morning, the students spent signed up for something they were interested in.  If they didn't sign up, Lerz and Israelite gave them an assignment. 

There are 230 students in the BHS freshman class and close to 100-percent participated this week. 

Bethel has a community service credit that students earn throughout their four years.  All Bethel High School students must complete 60 hours of community service over their four years, but Troetti says a majority of students complete that before their Junior year.

Troetti says he's proud of the efforts of everyone involved and thanked community members who supported the project.  This will now be an annual event.

The students created artwork for the Women's Center of Greater Danbury, cleaned up around Meckauer Park, worked at the community garden at Berry School, and read to elementary students.  They also made tiaras for participants in the SCOTTY Fund picnic.  The SCOTTY Fund is a local non-profit which provides financial and family support to children with life-threatening and critical illnesses and their families.