Fern Elementary in Kalihi has started a penny drive in the memory of Jason Balatico, whose daughter and son attend Fern. Vice Principal Sophia Davis said the money will be presented to Balatico's mother once she returns to work. Davis said the penny drive is an extension of the school's Aloha United Way campaign. Money that is collected above their goal would be given to the family. Pennies are a simple and inexpensive memorial with which students and their families can express their condolences, Davis said.
Plans are to keep the penny jars in the classroom after the money is given to the family.
The future proceeds will be donated to the memorial fund established by Xerox, Davis said. It was important that the students heard the news the next day. It was important for the students to know. The Balatico children returned to school Monday. I think that's important to the children.