Engaging Families and Building Community at Colleen and Gordie Howe Middle School

At Colleen and Gordie Howe Middle School, we recognize that the foundation of student success is built in the classroom and the connections we forge with families and the broader community. This December, we hosted our first-ever BASES Turkey Dinner—a heartwarming event designed to unite families facing challenges or experiencing difficult times. Through the universal language of food, we could foster a sense of belonging, connection, and celebration.

The BASES Turkey Dinner is much more than a meal; it's an opportunity to strengthen the relationships between students, their families, and our staff. For families navigating financial, emotional, or personal struggles, the dinner provides a welcoming and safe space to connect with the school community. These connections are essential for creating the wrap-around support that helps our students thrive.

This year's dinner brought together over 20 families, transforming the school's foyer into a festive dining hall filled with laughter, conversation, and the irresistible aroma of a traditional turkey feast. Staff and community volunteers came together to make the event a success. From carving turkeys to serving plates, everyone played a part in ensuring that our families felt cared for and valued.

The impact of the BASES Turkey Dinner extends far beyond the evening itself. For many families, it is an entry point into deeper engagement with the school. By attending this event, parents and caregivers can meet teachers, administrators, and support staff in a relaxed and informal setting. These interactions help build trust and open lines of communication, which are critical for supporting students academically and emotionally.

For students, the dinner provides an opportunity to see their school as more than just a place of learning. It becomes a community hub where they and their families are celebrated and supported. This sense of belonging can profoundly affect a student’s confidence, motivation, and overall well-being. One parent shared, "It’s wonderful to feel part of a community that genuinely cares about us. My child feels more comfortable at school because they know we're all in this together."

As we reflect on this year's dinner, we are reminded of the vital role that family and community engagement play in student success. Events like the BASES Turkey Dinner are not just about providing a meal; they are about creating a network of care and connection that empowers our students to thrive. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to making this event possible and look forward to continuing to find meaningful ways to engage our families and community in the years to come.

Together, we are stronger. Together, we make a difference.