Did you hear that? It was the collective sigh of relief as millions of parents, teachers and students in many countries completed another school year during a pandemic. But don’t rest too easily. It’s time to start planning for the next academic year. What can your Kiwanis club do to help? Here are a few ideas:

• Make a note to contact your community’s schools about a week before classes begin to make plans for student-centered service projects, including any Service Leadership Programs your club may sponsor. Ensure the principal is on board and everything is in place for clubs to succeed.
• Find out if schools have specific needs. Contact schools directly or find out who is president of the parent/faculty organization if one is in place. Supply lists may have changed since the pandemic, and Kiwanis clubs may be able to help.
• Inquire about lunch needs. Many students are on free or reduced lunch plans. And many others don’t eat well when not in school. Consider a weekend backpack project to send healthy food home with students who need it. Ask about donating food that could be picked up at the school or another location. Or consider donating money for students who don’t have lunch money.