Bring it Back

Today, we ventured out to the local public high school, Orr Academy High School. Our expectations went out the window as soon as we walked in the doors. Instantly we saw the metal detectors, security guards surrounded with the beautiful multicolored murals, and greeted by smiling faces and high fives from the students. The tour of the high school included a brief hello to the in-school day care that cared for student’s children that ranged from newborn to 3 years old. Orr High School also features a health care center, which specializes in prenatal care. Overwhelmed with the emotion of shock, we were in disbelief that there is a need for a day care in the school. At the high school we spent our time talking to the students about the lack of fresh produce in the area also known as a food desert. The remainder of the time was spent answering the student’s questions about college schedules, college life, and college expectations. Most students knew very little about any aspect of college, while others seemed very engaged in the conversation; at the same time other students were very apathetic towards the conversation. Witnessing the conversation made us feel discouraged that some students had no intention of finishing high school or pursuing a college career. Simultaneously, we felt hopeful for the students who showed interest in furthering their education.

For lunch, Sister Stephanie took us to the infamous Jimmy’s Red Hots where we enjoyed a delicious Chicago style hot dog that doesn’t even need ketchup. The owner of the hot dog stand generously fed us for free!

After lunch, we returned to the YMCA to help out at the after school program. Throughout the afternoon, we helped the kids finish up their homework, did some physical activity in the gym, helped serve dinner, and did other activities like arts and crafts. After forming a weeklong bond with the kids we said our final goodbyes. We felt extremely saddened, but at the same time we felt we inspired and provided some needed attention to the kids. Overall, we felt we had a lot of one-on-one interactions with the community which left us feeling inspired to bring back all of our effort to the Knoxville community.

By: Tyler Smith and Anna Fraser