Ocean Palms Elementary recently honored Karen Freedman, Suzanne Mulvee and Chloe Bomar as its “Outstanding School Volunteers” for 2015-2016.
The recipients were recognized at a St. Johns County School District reception at St. Johns Technical College held to honor outstanding volunteer award nominees and recipients across the county.
Freedman was recognized in the Adult category. A past PTO president, she continues to lead a successful collaboration of parents, community and school personnel resulting in a positive impact for the benefit of the school’s students. At the awards ceremony, Freedman was recognized for helping to raise more than $80,000 from local business partnerships and for her role in making OPE one of the few county schools to install hydroponic gardens. She has also worked closely with the school’s third grade teachers on STEM standards and has served in numerous volunteer capacities, including as a room mother, event coordinator, grant writer and more.
Mulvee was honored as the school’s outstanding senior volunteer. A master gardener, she has volunteered in the school’s kindergarten classrooms, incorporating environmental education into the classes’ curriculum plans. She also serves as a board member of Bird Island Park, volunteering to assist with its maintenance.
As outstanding youth volunteer, Landrum Middle School student Bomar has assisted OPE teachers in their classrooms as well as in the media center. Under the supervision of teachers, she has lead small-group discussions and worked with students individually on reading aloud, using flash cards and more. Bomar’s community service also includes participation in the Small Steps youth-led service group and its Change for a Change Project. She is also a member of Landrum’s Best Buddies club.
