In response to parent requests, the Samuel W. Tucker Elementary School PTA is hosting a special parent-student workshop, in partnership with the City of Alexandria, on how to keep our children safe from violence, bullying, gangs, drugs and pregnancy, the school announced last week.

Students from grades three, four and five will meet and have a guided discussion with an opportunity to ask questions.  Parents of students from all grades are invited to meet separately to learn about signs to look for, ways to communicate and follow up with their children regarding these difficult subjects.

The event will take place at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, November 17, in the schools mini-auditorium.

Hammond Campus Holds Shoe Collection Through November 10

The students of the Francis C. Hammond middle schools are participating in a shoe-collection community service project through November 10. As part of the project, Sole4Souls, Inc. will collect worn footwear to help provide assistance to people in need, whether they are victims of natural disaster or subject to living in extreme poverty.

Organizers said the charity can use each and every pair to make a real difference in someones life and estimates indicate that Americans have 1.5 billion pairs of unused shoes lying in their closets. Donations can be made at the campuss drop boxes.