UPDATE: OKEMOS - The children were thrilled to see that this was not the usual assembly. There was a large black tarp covering the supplies as the children arrived. Underneath was over $7,500 in school supplies. These supplies were courtesy of the generous residents of Okemos. For the past few months the OfficeMax in Okemos collected donations for their “A Day Made Better” fund.

OfficeMax recognizes that teachers spend over $1,000 a year out of their own pockets in order to provide their students with the supplies and fundings they need, according to Vahn Klinke Manager at the Okemos OfficeMax. "OfficeMax makes it a concern to lessen this problem by going to schools all over the United States and filling their need in the classroom," said Klinke.

Fifth grade teacher at Okemos, Lisa Gracia was honored individually for her diligence and hard work as a teacher. Principal Tegreeny said that Mrs. Gracia’s involvement as a teacher and example as a educator is what got her recognized for the award.

Mrs. Gracia said sometimes she does have to take away from her family in order to give to her students, but her children understand because their teachers do the same for them.

ORIGINAL STORY: OKEMOS - On October 1, 2012, OfficeMax surprised the facility and students at Rayla Elementary with school supplies.