For the past two decades, the halls of Pocono Mountain Schools haven't just echoed with the sounds of teenagers and textbooks. They have also been filled with the spirit of giving back, thanks to a unique partnership between the schools and Make-A-Wish^® Greater Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

The story began in 2002 with a young Pocono Mountain West High School (PMWHS) student named Steven Mitchel. Steven, battling a critical illness himself, dreamt of a world where other children facing similar challenges could have their wishes granted. Sadly, Steven passed away a year after his wish was granted in 2003, but his memory became the fuel for a powerful legacy.

Inspired by Steven's story, the PMWHS Student Council embarked on a mission to honor him and bring joy to other wish kids. Every March, for the past 20 years, the school transforms into a haven for Make-A-Wish. Bake sales and dining out events inject excitement and delicious treats into the community and homerooms compete in fundraising challenges as the entire school rallies behind a single cause: granting wishes.

“Make-A-Wish month in March is a well-known fundraiser at our school,” Jennifer Paul, the PMWHS student council advisor, said. "Everyone knows the paper stars and quarter-sized stickers when they see them distributed at the end of February to all homerooms."

This remarkable partnership is a testament to the power of student leadership and the unwavering spirit of a community. The impact has rippled out from PMWHS; other schools in the school district have joined the effort to spark hope for local wish kids with their own fundraisers.

One of the most spectacular fundraising events of the past decade was the Harlem Wizards game hosted by Pocono Mountain West Junior High School and Swiftwater Intermediate School which raised nearly $10,000, bringing wishes to life for more local children facing critical illnesses.

But the impact goes far beyond bake sales and friendly competition between classes. The Student Council emphasizes that supporting Make-A-Wish is not just about fundraising; it's about empathy, community and understanding the power of a wish.

Over the years, this school district’s dedication has touched countless lives. The students, faculty and staff have witnessed the joy on the faces of wish kids, the gratitude of families and the camaraderie fostered within their own school community.

"Our most favorite memories come from meeting the wish kids and their families," Jennifer reminisced. "We've even been able to support several students from our school."

Thank you to all the following schools in Pocono Mountain School District who are proving that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a life-changing impact, one wish at a time.

• Clear Run Elementary Center
• Clear Run Intermediate School
• Pocono Mountain East High School
• Pocono Mountain East Junior High School
• Pocono Mountain West High School
• Pocono Mountain West Junior High School
• Swiftwater Elementary Center
• Swiftwater Intermediate School
• Tobyhanna Elementary Center