FROM STAFF REPORTS

BIRMINGHAM – At her home closing in Birmingham last Friday, Calera Elementary School paraeducator Vanessa Simpson was presented with a check for $250 to go toward supplies for the 2017-18 school year by her realtor Shannon Wilks of Brik Realty and the Jeremy Miller Team.

Wilks has begun the tradition of allowing her clients to choose a teacher to support at each of her closings, but she didn’t give Simpson an option last week.

“It is very important to me to give back to my community,” Wilks said. “As we all know, teachers pay out of their own pockets to supply the needs of their classrooms. That’s why, if you list with me, you can choose a teacher to receive support.

“On Friday, I got to close with a local educator in Vanessa, and I didn’t give her a choice. She is very deserving of this donation, and I would like her to be congratulated on not only closing on the sale of her home but for teaching our next generation,” Wilks added.

“I was definitely surprised to receive the donation for next school year. I will be able to provide much-needed supplies and resources for my sweet students!” Simpson said.

Wilks can be reached at 587-4324 or by email at soldbyshannonwilks@gmail.com.