A feast, yes — but so much more at Knox Learning Center

You hear it often: “We’re like a family here.”

Many organizations use that phrase, but nowhere does it have more meaning than at the Knox Learning Center.

“Family” embodies the daily philosophy at the K-12 alternative school operated by the Knox Educational Service Center in the former Mount Vernon West Elementary building. Students unable to succeed in their home schools for a variety of reasons – behavior, lack of academic initiative, broken homes and attendance among them – find a stern but loving opportunity to learn and grow.

The Learning Center family came together Nov. 18 for its annual Thanksgiving feast, a tradition that unites students, staff, parents and community. 

“It’s love. It’s sharing. It’s caring. We served about 230 meals. Many parents joined their children to eat in classrooms or the commons area. Other meals were prepared as carryout for students’ families who chose to pick them up,” said art teacher Kim Aritonovich, who has coordinated the event for the last 11 years.

The menu included turkey, mashed potatoes, corn, stuffing, green bean casserole, rolls, pumpkin pie and cookies.

Aritonovich began planning six weeks earlier, gratefully accepting contributions from Lanning’s Foods, Baker’s IGA, the Southside Diner and a few independent donors. Meal preparation at the school required eight dozen eggs and 35 pounds of flour.

Students and staff brought in canned goods. Side dishes were prepared at the school while staff members cooked the turkeys at home.

“The kids were involved,” Aritonovich said. “Some took turns cutting noodles. Each classroom made decorations.

“It’s so important because for some students this is the only traditional Thanksgiving meal they will have.”

Superintendent Dr. Timm Mackley, who has headed the Knox ESC for 16 years, said the Learning Center offers a unique environment.

“I’ve been in a lot of schools during my 52 years in education, but the Learning Center is the tightest-knit school I have been involved with,” Mackleysaid. “Planning, preparing and serving the Thanksgiving meal shows the respect and love we have for our students. It’s an opportunity to do something nice for them and invite their parents to participate.”

Students at the Learning Center overcome their educational obstacles because the staff dedicates time and attention to each one, Mackley said.

“We are proud that students who were unable to find success elsewhere can find it here.”

For Aritonovich, the pots and pans have been washed, tables folded and put away, leftovers donated to the Mount Vernon Police Department.

The annual feast is a lot of work for the veteran art teacher and other staff members. But all agree it’s more than worth the effort.

“I hope,” Aritonovich added, “that Thanksgiving here is a happy memory the kids will always have.”