(Editor's Note: This letter was originally sent to Discover Burien executive director Steve Gilbert, who forwarded it to the Times/News.)

My name is Kari O'Brien and I am currently working with AmeriCorps: Solid Ground, in the Highline School District, as a sustainability coordinator.

Within the elementary schools, it is my goal to create an environment in which the community and school can join together to support one another. It is my hope to begin a program in which students are allowed to share their culture, knowledge, and language through literacy, along side fellow peers and mentors.

Currently I am working with McMicken Heights, Southern Heights, and Hilltop Elementary Schools on creating after school programs that cater to each school.

I am looking for volunteers who would be interested in volunteering their time and energy to assist students with homework and reading activities. Currently, Hilltop Elementary and McMicken Heights Elementary both have an after school program, which provides a safe and encouraging environment for students to focus on their homework and reading. The program runs from 3:15 to 4:15 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Kari O'Brien
McMicken Heights Elementary
Sustainability Coordinator
obrienka@hsd401.org