Stories of Service

Foster Grandmother honored at Ida Elementary

Irene DeBruyn

Foster Grandparents - Monroe County, Dundee

By T.L. Whitaker Temperatures were in the teens, with wind chills below zero, but Irene DeBruyn of Dundee was warmed by the affection of the students and staff members at Ida Elementary. Mrs. DeBruyn was honored on Wednesday, Jan. 27, officially declared “Foster Grandparent Volunteer Day” by Gov. Jennifer Granholm. Mrs. DeBruyn, who is 83 years old, is observing her 15th year as a Foster Grandparent. She has been volunteering at Ida Elementary for the past seven years, but also previously served in Dundee, Summerfield and Britton. She is on the board of the Monroe County Foster Grandparent program. As a Foster Grandparent, Mrs. DeBruyn works with the youngsters. She helps them practice their reading or math skills— whatever will be helpful. She provides reassurance and encouragement. She also works with students in the summer to improve their reading skills. Mrs. DeBruyn said she has a great respect for the teachers she works with, and loves the students. She has been known to bring in cookies for others to enjoy. She also has a great love of music and dancing, so the youngsters tend to do a lot of that around her, too. In fact, Mrs. Locke had the students learn Mrs. DeBruyn’s favorite song, “Skinamarinky,” which they sang as a group to surprise her. The students all drew colorful pictures of themselves, which were gathered into a book, as a special gift. “Aren’t they talented,” said Mrs. DeBruyn, as she turned the pages. “They did a good job. I am amazed that they kept it all so quiet, and I did not suspect a thing.” It was “Beach Party Day,” so the atmosphere was doubly festive, as Mrs. DeBruyn and teachers donned shorts or grass skirts and colorful floral leis. Mrs. DeBruyn also wore a crown. “She was a bucket-filler this morning,” said Ida Principal Tami Rawlings. “She was honored at our principals’ breakfast. She is a great asset to our school and a real treasure. We made her Queen for a Day.” Kindergarten teacher Sherry Locke led the effort to recognize Mrs. DeBruyn’s contributions. They surprised Mrs. DeBruyn with a party— and a special gift. The staff got together and agreed to designate a parking spot as being “Reserved for Foster Grandparent.” There is a red and white sign now posted on one of the visitors’ spaces near the elementary school’s front door. Mrs. DeBruyn and students from Mrs. Locke’s classroom bundled up and went outside to admire the new sign. “Grandma is our queen. She is a gift to us. We are forever grateful, and we brought flowers and treats today to keep her sweet,” said Mrs. Locke. Mrs. DeBruyn was so touched by all the attention that she had to wipe her eyes several times. “All of them treat me so well,” said Mrs. DeBruyn.