Auburn School District No. 408
915 4th Street Northeast, Auburn, WA  98002

12/6/05

NEWS RELEASE
Mary and Denis Goodwin to Receive Gold Star Award

On Monday, December 12, the Auburn School Board of Directors will recognize Mary and Denis Goodwin, community members, for serving the students in the Native American after school literacy program at Chinook Elementary School. Pat Fleming, Native American Resource Room teacher, praises the Goodwins for “faithfully coming to Chinook one day a week from October to May, to tutor students who stay after school for literacy.” The Goodwins became involved with volunteering because of the Muckleshoot tribe and their involvement in the Muckleshoot Pentecostal Church. Mrs. Goodwin is a retired special education teacher and Mr. Goodwin loves kids and reading. They selected Chinook Elementary because it was across the street from their church. When asked what they think their presence in the classroom means to students, they answered, “We hope it says grandparents (and other adults) care about this generation and are willing to help work toward success. We try to be consistent and show love and interest in the students and their lives.” Without a doubt, what the Goodwins enjoy most about volunteering are the students. “Their enthusiasum as the students actually read is so admirable. We are also so impressed with the staff and their willingness to help after school,” said Mr. and Mrs. Goodwin. Chinook principal, John Sander, lauded Mary and Denis Goodwin, “Denis and Mary represent the best that the community has to offer. The opportunity they provide to our students to spend time with caring, consistent adults is tremendous. They are truly making a difference in the lives of our students and we are very grateful for their time, talent, and dedication.”

For more information, contact Superintendent Linda Cowan at (253) 931-4914.