Hathaway Elementary hosts annual holiday gift shop

Hathaway Elementary School’s annual holiday gift store has reopened after a one-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The gift store allows student shoppers to choose from a selection of donated items, including mugs, books, ornaments and toys.

The store opened for the first time in 2015 thanks to the efforts of Washougal resident and community volunteer Pam Clark, who attended Hathaway Elementary in the mid-1950s

“I love helping students have an opportunity to share in the giving season,” Clark said. “All of these items are collected throughout the year for this event, and some have been in storage for two years. It is wonderful to bring this experience back.”

Students shop at the store with “credit” received from exchanging “Pawsitive Slips,” which they earn by demonstrating positive behavior and characteristics. 

“The holiday gift store helps all of our students learn and feel the importance and joy of giving by redeeming their ‘Pawsitive Slips,’” Hathaway Elementary principal Wendy Morrill stated in a news release. “It’s a win-win. Nearly half of our students at Hathaway are furthest from opportunity and are unable to buy and give gifts for family or friends during the holiday season. It is wonderful to provide this service for our students.”