LOIS KINDLE PHOTOS
One of two tables full of raffle prizes await new teachers and administrators at the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce’s annual New Teacher Breakfast at Del Webb Southshore Falls in Apollo Beach.
By LOIS KINDLE
About 400 teachers either new to the profession or new to 39 South Shore schools were treated to breakfast Aug. 3 and 4 at events hosted by the SouthShore and Greater Riverview chambers of commerce.
The breakfasts took place at Del Webb Southshore Falls in Apollo Beach and The Regent in Riverview, respectively.
Both executive directors passionately addressed the need for the business community to partner with schools.
“From students to teachers to administrators, our schools need support,” said Melanie Rimes, executive director of the SouthShore Chamber, which has an active, 40-member Educational Partnership Committee. “They’re part of our community, and if we want to enhance the quality of life here, we need to invest in our kids and schools.”
Her counterpart in Riverview agreed.
“Many of our members volunteer at our schools or help sponsor their events,” said Executive Director Tanya Doran. “In addition to sponsoring the breakfast, the Greater Riverview Chamber partners with Riverview High School, Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office to host Trick or Treat Street each year. Any time a school is in need, we connect it with an organization or member business that could provide help.”
Teachers received all kinds of school supplies and raffle prizes at both breakfasts and were praised effusively by Hillsborough County School officials and chamber officials.
