On Feb. 18, all MATC students got the day off, so MATC instructors could attend the first annual MATC Day at the BMO Harris Bradley Center. The goal was to help the instructors and staff gain a better understanding of students and their struggles in daily life.

In the morning, MATC employees learned how to help students with their daily struggles. Tom LaPierre, an instructor in the Baking and Pastry Arts  program, said, “We learned how the daily struggles of students affect their attendance, concentration and other things.” Debra Socha, also an instructor in the Baking and Pastry Arts program, added, “They don’t have enough money for food so it affects how they concentrate in school.” The instructors got a better understanding of their students and how they can help them with their struggles.

In the afternoon, the attendees packaged 2,400 emergency food kits for students and others in the community. Food like tuna, peanut butter and other healthy items filled the bags that had the MATC logo on the front. Inside the bag was also a card letting the recipient know how they can get in contact with the sponsor, United Way, if they need more assistance. Also included in the food bag was a personally written card from one of the MATC employees.

If an instructor notices that one of their students is in need, they are to send that individual to Student Services, where they will further assist the student.