By Sue Moore
A huge gathering of students in support of those with disabilities celebrated the 20th year of the Common Bond organization in October. They were served pizza and drinks, played on a bouncy house, met with an artist doing drawings of kids’ faces as fast as she could, and took turns on a bull riding machine.
Common Bond is a club for Schoolcraft students which brings together students with disabilities and those who will mentor them during their years in middle school and high school. It is led by special education instructor Amy Green, a dedicated teacher of 31 years in Schoolcraft.
Coaches of the football, volleyball and cross-country teams delayed practice so all of their athletes could come to support Common Bond. The crowd of students swelled to at least 100 during the after-school party.
The mannequin in the picture, named Eugene Green, has become Common Bond’s mascot. He has become a symbol in the high school building to represent all of the clubs and activities. What started as a place for Common Bond announcements has evolved into a school mascot that has every school club shirt, athletic jersey, and marching band uniform. Eugene has shown up at school events and even the prom. He’s a fun icon that sports tons of outfits, wigs, hats and fun costumes. Amy Green is in charge of dressing the mannequin for each special occasion.