Photo: GoFundMe
The community stands behind a beloved West Kelowna elementary school teacher who has been homeless due to the wildfire in Mount Law
Shannondee Rigby was the unfortunate resident of the single family home that was destroyed in a wildfire in Upper Glenrosa.
11th grade student Callie Patton said Rigby made a huge impact on many students even when they weren’t in her class, prompting Patton to start a GoFundMe campaign to help out.
“I went to see her when my brother was in kindergarten. She was always a warm presence and welcoming to me. I’ve known her almost all my life and I’ve loved visiting, ”Patton told Castanet.
Rigby is a passionate advocate of children’s rights and reconciliation, Patton said, adding that she “deeply involves all students in her class and the school community – her students are not just those in her classroom”.
When it became known on social media that Rigby was living in the burning house, there was a flurry of supportive comments from parents and students.
“Oh, she’s my son’s favorite teacher. He’s 13 and still talks about how great she was, ”said one mother.
Patton said Rigby’s husband died less than a year ago, so all of his belongings were burned in the fire, along with all of their classroom materials for the upcoming school year.
Rigby also looked after her terminally ill mother and recently moved into the Glenrosa house with her. Both now live in an RV in Summerland and are looking for a furnished home in West Kelowna soon.
“Shannondee is such a thoughtful, kind, generous person who gives her the time and everything she can to help her students, friends, and others in the community,” Patton continued.
By Friday morning, the fundraiser had raised $ 4,300 of its $ 15,000 goal.
Photo: GoFundMe
