JHS Gets Champlin Grant Of $83,000

At its Dec. 6 meeting, the Johnston School Committee learned that the district is the recipient of an $83,000 grant from the Champlin Foundations.

Supt. Dr. Bernard DiLullo told the board that high school science teacher Jennifer Sousa and district advisor Karen Lepore worked to secure the grant, which will help the department buy new science and technology equipment.

According to the Champlin Foundations website, the Warwick-based nonprofit organization has donated more than $442 million to local agencies and schools since 1932.

Fund For Archilla Marker Stone

In the wake of last month’s death of Johnston High School student Liza Archilla, the town of Johnston and the school district have set up a fund to accept donations for a marker stone at Archilla’s burial plot, Chairwoman Janice Mele said.

“The stone should cost around $1900 — we are almost there," Mele explained. "We’ve received checks from the police and fire departments. Durham transportation has set up a [donation] box, town hall has one, and the faculty and administration have helped enormously.”

Mele said she thinks the drive will soon reach its goal so that the stone can be ordered.

“This is important. She [Archilla] needs to have one so her friends can visit her and know she’s there,” Mele said.