Students at Silver Rail Elementary in Bend are kicking off the new school year with heartfelt gratitude. On Saturday, the Silver Rail Children’s Fund teamed with Flowers by Eryn to host a “Flowers for Your Teachers” gathering, giving children a chance to create handmade gifts for the educators who will welcome them back to the classroom.
Kids create gifts with flowers, art and notes
At the community‑focused event, children selected fresh blossoms, sketched artwork and penned personal notes expressing appreciation for their teachers. Organizers described the gathering as a fun, creative space where families could celebrate the upcoming school year together.
Local vendors and health counselors on site
While families crafted gifts, the Plante Coffee Bar served drinks and The Wandering Ranchero food truck offered meals for attendees. Counselors from Deschutes Health set up a station to provide emotional support and resources to students and their families, reinforcing the event’s emphasis on well‑being.
Organizer’s perspective
Eryn Johnson, owner of Flowers by Eryn, said she felt privileged to host the gathering. “It just feels like such a privilege to see all these kids here having a spot to come and get to be creative and gather and make something for their teachers before they go back to school,” Johnson said.
Community impact
The event highlights the strong partnership between local nonprofits, small businesses and health providers in Bend. By fostering gratitude and creativity, the Silver Rail Children’s Fund helps build a supportive environment that aligns with family values and encourages students to start the school year with a positive mindset.
Parents and teachers alike praised the initiative, noting that the handmade gifts will serve as a lasting reminder of the community’s care for education. As the school year approaches, events like this reinforce the importance of local involvement in nurturing both academic success and personal growth for children.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
