My name is Deborah Johnson and I am the school interventionist at McKnight Middle School in the Renton Highlands area. I am also in charge of our McKnight Holiday Giving Tree. I have been at McKnight for 11 years and it has been my privilege to meet and help over 4,000 students.

In the past, the McKnight Holiday Giving Tree has supported three or four families each year.  Last year with increased community awareness of our program, we helped over twenty families enjoy the holidays.  Currently, we have more than 40 families seeking our support.  Some of the families are homeless and many more are struggling financially.  We have a family living in a tent, without running water, heat, or electricity, some families living in their vehicles, and others who sleep in the home of a different friend or relative every night of the week. Our students’ home environment has a profound impact on the students’ academic success.

It is almost impossible for these students to be successful and to keep up with their peers when they do not know where they will be sleeping that evening, how they will get their homework done without proper lighting, or where they might get their next meal. Many of our students struggle with being self-conscious of their hygiene because they do not have access to a shower, washer, or dryer.  Some are sleepy and some simply cannot focus.  The list of obstacles is enormous and my heart breaks when I see students struggling with these issues.

We believe that all students have the right to be successful.  Please help us meet the needs of our students and their families by spreading the word and donating money, basic items, clothes, or shoes.  Every dollar or item will go directly to a family in need.  If you have any questions, or would like ways to support our program, please contact me directly at (425) 204 – 3623 or deborah.johnson@rentonschools.us.

Deborah Johnson

McKnight Middle School Interventionist