Freshman students from G. Ray Bodley High School took a break from the classroom last week to help clean up North Bay Campground in Fulton. Now in its second year, the event is an important piece of Fulton’s City and School Synergy program, which looks to strengthen the community and develop student leaders.

On May 14, the Class of 2028 continued the efforts they began last year as eighth-graders at North Bay. They revitalized the basketball court, installed a new volleyball court, laid down new mulch in the playground, and created a trail to the top of the hill. Students with green thumbs weeded and planted vegetables in the community garden, mulched and planted flowers, and transplanted and replaced nursery trees. They also built three new benches and a picnic table on-site, painted existing picnic tables and flag poles, and painted a beautiful mural designed by one of their own. Collectively, students carried out more than 740 hours of community service. These same students will continue their work at North Bay each year until graduation as part of the ongoing Synergy program.

“I think it means a lot,” observed Julia Tomarchio, Freshman Class President. “We’re giving back to the community. We’re helping to build and refresh this campground and help others.”

Synergy began last year as a major bridge between the Fulton City School District and the greater Fulton community. Working with local organizations and businesses, Synergy leaders look to build positive change and growth both within the area and their students. While students take on key volunteer opportunities, they also earn points toward the Seal of Civic Readiness, a key distinction at graduation.

“They are truly an example of what kids will do when empowered,” added Denise Rodriguez, one of the organizers of both the event and the Synergy program. “I can't wait to see this project continue to grow and support our community.”

In June, the class of 2029 will begin their own efforts at Canal Park, which will become their project over the next several years. The program will continue to grow as the Class of 2030 selects another Fulton park to care for upon entering eighth grade in the fall.

Fulton Mayor Jim Rice has been a major part of the Synergy program over the past two years and was on-site for the entire North Bay event. “It gives our students a place of belonging,” he said after getting his own hands dirty in the morning-long cleanup. “The Class of 2028 owns this.”

Organizers would like to thank the Shineman Foundation, Novelis, Fulton Block Builders, Americu, the Fulton Garden Club, the Fulton Rotary Club, the Fulton Police Department, The Fulton Department of Recreation, and Mayor Jim Rice for their generous contributions of time and resources to see the Synergy program flourish.