MOUNT VERNON -- Halloween trick or treat at the Knox Learning Center was about more than candy; it was a demonstration of community support.
A dozen representatives of local departments, agencies and programs, including Mount Vernon’s police and fire departments, joined staff ato distribute treats on the playground.
“This is wonderful support from the community. Our staff and students appreciate these individuals taking time out of their busy days to be with us,” said art teacher Kim Aritonovich, who organized the noontime event.
The visitors, some of whom were in costumes, brought sacks of treats, as did several staff members.
Aritonovich distributed leftover treats to neighborhood children in front of the school Friday evening.
The Knox Learning Center, located in the former Mount Vernon West Elementary building, is a K-12 alternative school operated by the Knox Educational Service Center. It serves students from Knox County and surrounding districts who have difficulty learning in their home school environments.
Community residents who participated in trick or treat included
Coty Shellenbarger, Jason VanHouse and Kevin Lisbon, Mount Vernon Fire Department.
Officer Coffey, Mount Vernon Police Department
Nancy Bevan, Community Roots
Madison Rechel, Julia Rine and Heather Petersen, New Directions
Melody Blanchard, juvenile probation
Erin Salva, Arch Community Garden coordinator
Kathy Wentland and Pat Kaiser, independent volunteers