First-graders’ coin collection helps less fortunate children

 In lieu of a gift exchange, the first-grade at Springfield Public School, in classes taught by Andrea Erickson and

Brandon Wilhelmi contributed pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters and dollars for a total of $212.50 that they contributed

to the Salvation Army to help people in need. “We talked about how some children don’t get presents,

and ways their gifts help those less fortunate,” said their teachers, Andrea Erickson and Brandon Wilhelmi.