Mariner Middle School students support Operation We Care

Students and staff at Mariner Middle School recently came together to make a meaningful impact through Operation We Care, a local initiative that sends care packages and messages of appreciation to members of the military and first responders. The project, organized in partnership with the Millsboro Arby’s restaurant, gave students a hands-on opportunity to demonstrate kindness, gratitude and community spirit.

As part of the school-wide effort, the Mariner community collected 182 containers of ramen noodles to be included in the care packages. Students also wrote more than 200 heartfelt letters to service members, expressing thanks for their dedication and sacrifice. These personal notes will accompany the donated items, helping remind recipients that their service is valued and appreciated back home.

Teachers said the project offered a valuable lesson in empathy and civic responsibility, connecting classroom learning to real-world experiences. “It’s important for students to understand that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference,” said Heather Kindl, AVID teacher at Mariner Middle School. “Through this project, they learned that giving back builds stronger communities and supports those who protect our freedoms.”

Operation We Care continues to bring schools, businesses and community members together in support of those who serve. Mariner Middle School is proud to play a part in that mission, showing that when students unite for a cause, their impact can reach far beyond the classroom.