Oltman Students Spread Warmth and Compassion

This winter, students at Oltman Middle School (OMS) learned that giving back can be just as meaningful as receiving. In the week leading up to winter break, students came together to create 155 handmade blankets that were donated to local hospitals and teen shelters, offering comfort and warmth to individuals and families during a challenging time of year. This year marked the 26th anniversary of the OMS tradition.

The yearly blanket-making project was organized as a service-learning activity, combining hands-on creativity with an important lesson in empathy and community responsibility. Students measured, cut, tied, and assembled fleece blankets, working collaboratively while learning about the real-world impact of their efforts.

“Students learn that kindness and care can make a big difference in someone’s life,” said OMS teacher Teresa Willkom.

Middle school is a critical time for students to develop a sense of social responsibility. By engaging in projects like this, students learn that giving back is something everyone can be part of. Service projects help students build empathy, teamwork skills and an awareness of the needs around them, lessons that extend far beyond the classroom.

“When students can see the direct impact of their work, it sticks with them,” said OMS principal Joni Hagebock. “They begin to understand that they have the power to help others and that’s an incredibly important lesson.”

The donated blankets were delivered to local hospitals and shelters just before the holidays, ensuring they would be put to immediate use during the cold winter months. 

Through simple acts of kindness, the students of OMS demonstrated that giving back is a gift that benefits everyone involved.