GCPS elementary schools meet student needs beyond the classroom

     Two Gwinnett County elementary schools have stepped up to meet the needs of their students and families. Hopkins Elementary and Stripling Elementary schools recently opened food pantries to provide accessible and respectful spaces where families can pick up essential items as needed.

     At Hopkins Elementary School, the ribbon-cutting event for the launch of two initiatives, Casa De Esperanza and Nora’s Closet, was a beautiful moment of celebration and community. Since joining Hopkins Elementary as principal in April 2025, Dr. Noreen Freeman has been working with staff to support families and enhance the school environment.

     Casa De Esperanza and Nora’s Closet were designed with great care and purpose to serve students and their families. Casa De Esperanza, the food pantry, and Nora’s Closet, the clothing hub, will provide essential resources for families, allowing them to select food and clothing with dignity, care, and respect.

“The heartfelt commitment behind these initiatives aims to uplift every family who walks through our doors,” says Dr. Freeman.

     Dr. Freeman adds that these initiatives hold a very special place in her heart. As a child, she experienced food insecurity, frequent moves, and lived with very few personal belongings. She says the schoolhouse was her refuge—a place of stability, comfort, and hope. Her greatest wish is for Hopkins to be that same beacon of light and support for every family it serves. In addition to these two initiatives, the school has installed new fencing, picnic tables for families to enjoy, and a new awning to shield car riders and staff from the rain.

     “As we look ahead, these spaces will play a crucial role in ensuring our students and their families have access to necessary support, fostering a sense of community, and alleviating stressors that may impact their daily lives. These initiatives stand as a testament to our shared belief in compassion, respect, and empowerment,” Dr. Freeman adds.
 

     In early March, Stripling Elementary School opened the Red Rocket Market, an emergency food pantry, thanks to generous community partners, the Giving Circle, and the work of the Stripling Elementary Counseling team.

     The Red Rocket Market will support 25 families by providing full meals every Friday with the goal of reducing weekend food insecurity in the community. As the market capacity increases, the school hopes to support even more families.

     The Stripling Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) program is also supporting the market by reducing food waste through repurposing leftover cafeteria food for emergency food assistance and Friday food bags. Student leaders will be involved in gathering those items and delivering them to the market. The Stripling STEM garden will also eventually support the market with fresh produce items grown by Stripling Elementary students and staff.

     “Stripling Elementary is excited about the possibilities the Red Rocket Market will create for our students and families by combating food insecurity and removing barriers to learning,” adds Principal Dr. Molly McAuliffe.