An idea that began within the Livorno Elementary Middle School, Parent Teacher Student Organization, has resulted in a practical and lasting improvement for families waiting during school dismissal.
Members of the PTSO noted that parents who frequently wait outside the school for their children's discharge needed seating. Rather than purchasing new benches, the group looked for creative and cost-effective alternatives. After meeting with Deputy Garrison Manager Tim Andersen, the PTSO identified unused benches at dismissed garrison bus stops as a potential solution.
“The bus stops were no longer in use, but the structures were still in good condition,” said Andersen. “It made sense to repurpose them instead of letting them go to waste.”
The benches inside the bus stops, however, required significant work before they could be safely reused. As part of the initiative, the 405th Army Field Support Battalion Africa offered to renovate the benches.
Sgt. First Class Daniel Chiu and Sgt. First Class Patrick Usher of the 405th AFSBN handed the bolted benches to the school after they had been disassembled, cleaned, modified to improve safety, and repainted by team members Massimiliano Lami and Alessio Maenza.
“The benches mean so much more than just somewhere to sit. It provides parents with a spot to have conversations and connect with each other. An important part of the school/parent relationship happens from moments that we share with each other,” said Jayme Hertlein, PTSO member.
Two benches were put at the school entrance, and two more were placed on the school playground, offering teachers more opportunities to spend time outside with students.
Megan Fletcher, a science teacher at LEMS, emphasized the importance of hands-on and outdoor investigation as part of the science curriculum.
“Science encourages students to ask questions and explore the world around them,” Fletcher said. “Taking learning outside helps students make real-world connections and strengthens their critical thinking skills.”
The benches are now in place and are expected to be enjoyed by LEMS families for years to come.
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