Communities In Schools, in conjunction with Topeka Public
Schools Foundation, Let’s Help, Harvester’s, and other local sponsors, held a
grand opening ceremony on November 25th to celebrate the opening of
Trojan Mart at Topeka High School. The store, which is located in the foyer of
the school’s Chester Woodward Library, operates on a ticket referral system
instead of cash. Students are given tickets by teachers or administrators to “purchase”
needed items such as school supplies, personal hygiene items, food, and even
art supplies. Susan Ortega, site coordinator for Communities In Schools at
Topeka High School said “(Unmet needs) can wear on our students and hinder
their ability to give 100% in class. By offering a free, on-site solution we
hope they are able to put their best foot forward every day at school.”
