MOUNT VERNON – Is it the 15th year? Or the 16th?
No one remembers for sure but the Knox Learning Center is preparing its annual Thanksgiving feast for students, their families and staff. Two hundred and twenty meals are expected to be served on Tuesday.
“It just keeps getting bigger every year,” said art teacher Kim Aritonovich, who has taught at the Learning Center for 13 years and been in charge of the dinner for the last 10.
The Learning Center, located in the former Mount Vernon West Elementary building, is an alternative school for students in grades one through 12. Operated by the Knox Educational Service Center (ESC), it has a current enrollment of about 60.
“It takes an army to get everything ready but we have many staff and student volunteers who are involved,” Aritonovich said. “As in past years we also are grateful for the community contributions that make the feast possible.”
Lanning’s Foods will donate eight turkeys. Southside Diner will provide mashed potatoes and Baker’s IGA will send cookies. Staff and students will make noodles.
“Several staff members will prepare the turkeys at home and bring them in Tuesday morning,” Aritonovich said. “Every classroom is involved, whether it’s helping to prepare the food or making colorful welcoming decorations.
“We will offer dine-in or carryout when the feast begins. Families who want to take their meals home can leave with their students. Those who choose to eat here will join their students and staff to eat in their classrooms or in the commons.”
Community residents who support the Learning Center throughout the year have been invited to join the feast.
ESC Superintendent Dr. Timm Mackley said Tuesday’s gathering will be much more than a holiday meal.
“Our Thanksgiving dinner is a time for our students, their families and our staff to talk, laugh and join in fellowship while enjoying a delicious meal,” he said. “It’s a cherished tradition at the Learning Center.”