'Gift From A Hero': Alum Gifts Serena Hills Students With Winter Coats

CHICAGO HEIGHTS, IL — The students at Serena Hills Elementary School, a Chicago Heights school that falls within Flossmoor School District 161, received a holiday surprise this week, thanks to the generosity of alumnus Allan DiCastro, the district said in a release.

During a special assembly held in the school gymnasium, every child at the school was gifted a brand-new winter jacket, custom-sized to fit them and embroidered with the school’s logo.

Principal Beth Reich led the heartwarming event, which was a surprise for the students until the big reveal. Addressing the packed gymnasium, Principal Reich spoke to the children about what it means to be a hero, drawing inspiration from the everyday acts of kindness that make a difference in the lives of others. She also shared an uplifting video from "Kid President," encouraging students to be positive changemakers in their communities.

Smiling from ear to ear, Principal Reich then delivered the exciting announcement.

"Today, every single one of you will receive a brand-new winter jacket to keep you warm this winter. These jackets are a special gift from a hero to Serena Hills Elementary School—Mr. Allan DiCastro, a proud alumnus of our school."

Cheers erupted as students returned to their classrooms, where staff members distributed the jackets. Once the entire school had received their gifts, students and staff gathered outside on the playground to form a heart shape for a group photo, proudly wearing their new coats. Together, the students shouted, "Thank you, Mr. DiCastro!" as a message of gratitude to their generous benefactor.

This gesture is just the latest in DiCastro’s ongoing support for Serena Hills Elementary School. In 2017, he donated a state-of-the-art STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) lab to the school, providing students with hands-on learning opportunities to prepare them for the future. In addition, DiCastro has pledged $50,000 in gift cards to be awarded to families with outstanding attendance records during the current academic quarter.

"Mr. DiCastro’s generosity goes far beyond material gifts," said Reich. "He is investing in the well-being and success of our students and their families, setting a powerful example of what it means to give back to the community. His support inspires all of us to be heroes in our own ways."