Retiring Teachers Transform Toy Collection into Fundraising Opportunity for School Clubs
A Treasure Trove of Collectibles
If you ever find yourself wandering into the art room at Bath County High School, be prepared to be swept away into a fantastical universe bursting with collectibles from Marvel to Star Wars. Shelves lined with hundreds of figurines paint a vivid picture of nostalgia, and soon, these cherished artifacts will be making their way to new homes for a noble cause.
The Legacy of John Ramey
John Ramey, a veteran educator with two decades of experience, never expected his extensive toy collection would be integral to his legacy. His passion for teaching radiates through the joy he shares with students about the iconic toys displayed in his classroom.
“It’s like wide-eyed awe,” Ramey remarks, as he proudly surveys what he describes as “one of the coolest rooms in the school.” For Ramey, these toys are more than mere decorations; they are teaching tools. “A lot of them are mini sculptures,” he explains. "We use some of the action figures for figure drawing, giving students a solid reference point."
Turning a New Leaf
With both John and his wife, Lee Ann Ramey, stepping into retirement—a milestone for the couple after years of dedication to education—they are embarking on a new journey. But before they take flight, they face a crucial decision: what to do with the extensive collection amassed over their teaching careers.
A Thoughtful Decision
Recognizing that storing these beloved toys would require more space than they could manage, the Rameys decided to sell their collection and direct the proceeds toward a heartfelt mission. “We decided, let’s split the money, let’s donate to the Art Club and the Culinary Department,” shared Lee Ann, who has been a dedicated teacher for 27 years.
“Art club is my club,” John adds with pride. By directing funds to these student-led initiatives, they’ll not only facilitate educational trips but ensure that future students have opportunities to thrive.
The Superhero Sale: A Community Affair
Mark your calendars! The Rameys will be hosting a vendor fair on April 12th at Bath County High School, starting at 9 a.m., where all proceeds from the sale of their treasured toys will benefit the school’s clubs.
Alexis Armstrong, president of the art club, has expressed her excitement: “The art club really loves to do everything we can, and I’m really happy that they’re going to get it!” The funds will be vital for underclassmen looking to expand their experiences in the arts.
Cherished Keepsakes
While the Rameys say goodbye to most of their toys, certain items hold a special place in John’s heart. “I have a Millennium Falcon transformer and another Millennium Falcon playset that I plan to keep, along with some Bob Ross pops.”
Parting with these items has been emotional for John. “It’s very hard,” he admits, “because everything has memories attached to it. But knowing it’s for a good cause makes it a bit easier.”
A Fresh Start and New Memories
As John and Lee Ann prepare to pass on their collectibles, they are comforted by the knowledge that the toys will be handed over to new owners who will cherish them just as they did. “I’ll be glad to see them go to people that actually want them and can maybe play with them some more,” Lee Ann reflects with optimism about the future.
Join the Cause
If you’re in the Owingsville area, don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to contribute to the Bath County High School community while scoring some amazing collectibles. This fundraising event is not just about toys; it’s about making a positive impact in the lives of students for years to come.
If you have a story of kindness or community spirit to share, reach out to [email protected]. Together, let’s highlight the kindness and creativity blossoming right in our schools!
