Academy students help clean up school

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Veronica McMahon
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla. --  Paul W. Airey non-commissioned officer academy students have been cleaning up A.D. Harris High School, from inside to outside, for almost a year, leaving an impression on the school's staff, students and surrounding community. 

Students from every six-week NCO class spend a Saturday doing everything from raking leaves and shoveling to pressure washing walls, painting and fixing furniture. 

"There has definitely been a difference since the NCO Academy has started helping," said Anita Dillard, A.D. Harris High School principal. "There are usually 25 to 40 students who volunteer (once a month). They spend time maintaining the inside and outside." 

A.D. Harris High School in Panama City is an alternative high school designed to give students a non-traditional option to succeed and receive a diploma, said Ms. Dillard. Some A.D. Harris students also join the military members during the weekends to contribute to the clean-up. This offers an opportunity for the high-school students to learn about the military and perhaps consider it as an avenue for themselves. 

The academy students come from many different Air Force bases to go through the course, and during their time here many participate in volunteer events. 

"They've been working hard," said Master Sgt. Mark Rix, NCO Academy data analysis superintendent. "More students have been coming out to help; the school was a mess, and now it looks good." 

This volunteer opportunity has formed a close tie between the high school and the academy. A.D. Harris students have also gotten the opportunity to visit the academy on base and even witness a graduation. 

Ms. Dillard said the academy has provided great opportunities for the students and staff. The maintenance and landscaping enhancements have given the students, staff and community a sense of pride. 

The Airey NCO Academy continues to work closely with the alternative high school on rotating weekends keeping it clean and presentable.