SACRAMENTO – Kimberly Presley, a volunteer from Yreka, was presented with the California State Lottery's “Heroes in Education” award on “The Big Spin®” show.
For more than 20 years, Ms. Presley has been a volunteer at Grenada Elementary School in Siskiyou County. She encourages students to read and provides them with the tools to do so. Ms. Presley single-handedly put together the school’s library and maintains it daily. She also stocks the shelves with books that are specifically requested by the students.
Ms. Presley also started two reading programs at Grenada, each designed to get students excited about reading by rewarding them with prizes for their achievements. In addition, she teaches Grenada’s students the importance of making positive changes to the environment: both on and off campus. She is constantly working on beautifying the school by planting and pruning flowers in its garden. Ms. Presley also introduced, and currently organizes, the school’s annual “Recycle Art Show”, where students create works of art, using items that would normally be thrown away.
On hand to honor Kimberly Presley was actor, William Sanderson, who has appeared in such films as Blade Runner, Fletch, Coal Miner’s Daughter and the television mini-series Lonesome Dove. He now stars on HBO’s Emmy Award winning series, Deadwood.
The California State Lottery’s “Heroes in Education” award is presented monthly on “The Big Spin®” show. The Lottery partners with celebrities to present these awards, which recognize special individuals who volunteer time and resources to their schools and communities.