April is Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month, and the East Golden Bears are once again stepping up to lead by example. On Monday, March 31st, cadets from the Golden Bears JROTC Battalion proudly participated in a community initiative to support Mahoning County Children Services’ efforts by planting pinwheels—symbols of childhood hope and safety—outside the agency’s office. Their efforts did not go unnoticed, as both 21 WFMJ and The Youngstown Vindicator were on site, interviewing cadets and Cadre about their involvement.
Although other schools, including Boardman High, participated briefly after East High had completed most of the work, the JROTC cadets were responsible for planting nearly 90% of the pinwheels. A Vindicator reporter specifically praised the Golden Bears, commenting on how genuinely involved and passionate the students appeared. “They really seem to care,” he said, reflecting the positive impression left by the East High scholars.
As part of a broader statewide initiative, East High will proudly join YCSD in “Painting the City Blue” on Tuesday, April 9th, encouraging all students, staff, and central office personnel to wear BLUE in solidarity with the movement to prevent child abuse and neglect. Throughout the month, school counselors as well as the district Student Services office will distribute pins, stickers, buttons, and awareness tokens that remind us of all of the vital role we play in recognizing and preventing abuse.
The Golden Bears continue to lead with heart, service, and pride—living examples of what it means to care for their community. Paws Up to our JROTC cadets and all East High scholars for making a powerful difference. Let’s come together, wear blue, and show what it means to be a Golden Bear—compassionate, aware, and committed to protecting every child.
