Dist. 54 school sends valentines to soldiers

MacArthur International Spanish Academy in Hoffman Estates decided to start Valentine's Day early.

As a school, they heard the need for letters and notes to cheer up soldiers overseas, in particular a battalion in Kuwait.

Principal Heidi LaFleur was contacted by a friend that the soldiers really enjoy heartfelt messages from kids.

So she set off to work and gathered stationary, stickers and decorations to have each child write a valentine letter to the soldiers.

In addition, she learned that they have a need for some items they do not have out there - lotion, sunscreen, Chapstick, coffee, gum, etc.

In one week, the students brought in many of these items so the Chief Warrant Officer 2 Willey could take these items to them.

Principal LaFleur and the school were presented with a flag that was flown in MacArthur's honor.

"It feels so good when we can give back to people who do so much for us," La Fleur said.

The students were thrilled to meet the soldiers face to face.

To learn more about the school, visit macarthur.sd54.org or twitter.com/MacToros.