Foundation Shows Appreciation to Staff Beyond Classroom Support

Schools globally struggle to retain teachers due to a combination of excessive workloads, low compensation, and challenging student behavior. While individual school leaders often face systemic limitations in resolving these large-scale issues, Principal Cindy Largent-Williams has made teacher retention a core priority of her administration. To support this mission, she requested targeted assistance from the Will Rogers High School Community Foundation.

To boost morale and foster a strong sense of community, the Foundation has implemented several key appreciation initiatives throughout the school year:

Back-to-School Fellowship: For the past two years, the Foundation has kicked off the school year by sponsoring a social event at a local pickleball venue, complete with complimentary snacks, to encourage camaraderie among the staff.

Seasonal Teacher Appreciation: Throughout the year, Foundation members team up with the Student Council to deliver themed, seasonal appreciation gifts directly to teachers.

Winter Break Gifts: While the Foundation historically distributed poinsettias to each classroom before the winter holidays, it transitioned during the 2025–26 school year to gifting custom thermal cups featuring a sketch of the school.

End-of-Year Cookout: To celebrate the conclusion of the academic year, the Foundation continues its multi-year tradition of hosting a celebratory hamburger cookout for the entire staff on their final day of school.

Through these intentional acts of gratitude, the Foundation helps bridge the gap in teacher support, fostering a positive workplace culture where educators feel valued.