The Penny Harvest - Accolades

Accolades

In 2006 Chancellor Joel I. Klein of the New York City Department of Education told principals that he recommended they bring the Penny Harvest to their schools “as part of a comprehensive strategy to improve the culture in your school. Consider the Penny Harvest as the key to service-learning and community involvement in your school.”

“The Penny Harvest takes place early in the year and helps foster school spirit, a positive atmosphere, improved community relations and favorable publicity,” said Principal Robert Guzzio of PS 14 in the Bronx. “The program develops a commitment to community, self worth and a caring attitude among students.”

Many youngsters find themselves taking part in group activities and even transforming into leaders for the first time as they get caught up in the thrill of the harvest. Diane Gonzalez, a teacher at PS 94, said “Everyone participated. Even students with speech problems were speaking and interacting, giving presentations and making phone calls!”

One parent said, “It was without a doubt the best thing my son did all year ... out of all of the classes and school assignments, he got the most out of the Penny Harvest.”