I am honored to nominate Mary Ellert for the Cincinnati Public Schools I CARE Award in recognition of her extraordinary compassion, dedication, and commitment to students at Carson Elementary.
Mary led an incredible effort to collect more than 480 blankets … one for every single student at Carson Elementary. This alone reflects remarkable organization, persistence, and care. However, Mary went far beyond collection and distribution. She personally embroidered each student’s name on their blanket, transforming a generous donation into something deeply personal and meaningful.
Just before Winter Break, every student received a warm, fuzzy blanket with their own name stitched on it; a tangible reminder that they are seen, valued, and cared for. For many students, this was more than a blanket; it was comfort, dignity, and a sense of belonging during the coldest time of the year.
Mary’s actions embody the very heart of the I CARE Award. She identified a need, mobilized resources, and poured countless hours of her own time into ensuring that every child felt special and supported. Her work reflects the best of Cincinnati Public Schools and demonstrates what it truly means to care for our students as whole people.
Mary Ellert’s compassion, generosity, and unwavering commitment to students make her exceptionally deserving of this recognition.
- Jessica Shelly, Director, Student Dining Services