Custodian from Ukraine overwhelmed by support from students at Georgia elementary school
COVINGTON, Ga -- When Oak Hill Elementary school opened its doors in 2001, Ukrainian-born Lana Gazhenko became the head custodian. And twenty-one years later, "Mrs. Lana," as she's known, is still in the same job.
She's found a second family at Oak Hill and is loved by staff and students alike. "We supported her as she studied to become a U.S. citizen," says 3rd-grade teacher, Jennifer McDonald.
Watching news footage of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and speaking to some of her 30 or so relatives who still live there has been traumatic for Mrs. Lana.
"She said that everyone takes everyone in because they said that today the others need help and tomorrow it could be them needing help. So, they are really helping each other," said McDonald.
As the crisis developed, everyone at Oak Hill wanted to show their support for Mrs. Lana and her extended family. So, students put their art skills to work, drawing and painting sunflowers, which is Ukraine's national flower and represents hope.
Teachers stayed late to decorate the school, and when Mrs. Lana arrived early one morning, she was stunned to find pictures of sunflowers lining the halls.
Watch the video above to see Mrs. Lana’s emotional reaction to the surprise from her school family.
Oak Hill's touching gesture is part of a broader effort to support the Ukrainians. The White House has announced that the U.S. will accept 100,000 Ukrainian refugees and others fleeing Russia's invasion. It will also provide more than $1 billion in new humanitarian aid. The funding will pay for food, shelter, clean water, medical supplies, and other forms of assistance.
Although many Ukrainian refugees prefer to remain in Europe, where they'll be closer to home, the Biden administration is working on expanding and developing programs focused on welcoming Ukrainians to America who have relatives in the U.S.