Keeping Teachers Teaching invites schools to bowl

Roberto A. Jackson

Gila River Indian News

Local teachers had a chance to enjoy a day of fun at Main Event Entertainment, in Tempe, thanks to a non-profit organization dedicated to the needs of teachers. 

Keeping Teachers Teaching, invited teachers from the Gila River Indian Community to the 4th Annual Keeping Teachers Teaching Arizona School District Bowling Tournament, where over 140 teachers from the Phoenix Metro area and other tribal communities, were treated to a meal, bowling, raffles and other presentations. 

“I think educators are under served and everybody needs to raise their awareness on how much the teachers put into each day,” said School Resource Officer James Milano, who was in attendance. 

Darryl Gooden, Founder/Chairman of Keeping Teachers Teaching, said his organization is about, “bringing the communities together.”

Gooden cited extensive out-of-pocket costs and low wages as reasons why it is so important to provide teachers with assistance. Gooden said if a teacher is experiencing hardship or they need funds for certification, then, “We raise the money.”

Following the bowling tournament, Kareem Neal, who was named as the Arizona Teacher of the Year last October, was a guest speaker.