Poynter's John Sarrazin is an 'Everyday Hero'
Last Updated Nov 2011
KATU News recently selected John Sarrazin, head custodian at Poynter Middle School, as one of its “Everyday Heroes,” recognizing his extensive volunteer work with Poynter students. Even after the last school bell rings, Mr. Sarrazin can still be found on campus, teaching bicycle repair to eager students, most of whom have never had their own bike.
The lessons aren’t just about sprockets and gears. The students apply planning, math, mechanical and critical thinking skills. They are instilled with a sense of pride and the eagerness to help others. Best of all, each student gets to take home a bike and a helmet and go through a bicycle safety class, knowing they can fix their bike themselves and teach others to do the same.
Mr. Sarrazin’s supply of bikes comes with the help of Poynter’s School Resource Officer, Hillsboro Police Detective Emory Souza, who provided him with a roomful of unclaimed bikes from the police station. “It’s a win-win situation,” Det. Souza said. “He has a knack for fixing bicycles [and] a knack for teaching students.”
As the program has grown from eight kids last year to 50 this year, the bike donations were very timely and more are needed as the program continues to expand. Volunteers as well as tool and cash donations also are needed.
Although his bike repair classes take a lot of work and time, for Mr. Sarrazin they are a labor of love. “These kids bring me a lot of joy,” he said. “If I can teach them anything, it’s a good day.”
Click here for KATU News’ feature on Mr. Sarrazin and contact information for volunteers and donations.