She's more than a volunteer...

She's also Ms. Carmola's mom!

Kelly & Cindy Carmola

For over seven years, Cindy Carmola has been a volunteer at Brookstone Schools. Six years ago, her daughter, Kelly Carmola, was hired as the 3rd grade teacher. Since then, the two of them have worked side by side in the classroom, and third graders have come to consider them both their teacher!

Cindy is a whirlwind. For example, on the playground today in a brief span of five minutes, Cindy was observed fixing a student's braid that had fallen loose, having a funny conversation with a student about how hot the weather was, tying a shoe string for a different student, reminding the group to tuck in their shirts and lining everyone up to go inside. She does all things with the loving command of a seasoned teacher. The students adore her.

What's her impact on children? Her daughter, Kelly, says, "My mom is the most selfless person I know. Her passion is helping other people, especially students at Brookstone. She has a heart for the Lord and that is evident watching her minister to my students. The kids light up when they see her and if she ever misses a day, the kids are sure to ask where she is and if she’s OK. I feel so thankful God chose me to be her daughter. I don’t know what I would do without her!”

Our school principal, Ms. Preston, added, "The kids LOVE her! She is so sweet and willing to help in any way. She helps with too many things to list (pizza parties, pool parties, playground duty...) and she's built lasting relationships with many of the children and their families." 

We feel deeply grateful for all of the volunteers who serve here at Brookstone, and we consider them all a part of our family! (It's extra special when they technically are.)