Keisha Tucker, known as “Miss Keisha” by students at Stratford Academy, is the newest addition to the FLIK lunchroom staff for the 2016-2017 year. She came to Stratford from Mount de Sales Academy.

Two weeks ago, Tucker experienced a tragedy when there was a fire at her home in Jones County. Her six children and an 11-month-old grandchild lived in the house.

Tucker was not at home when the fire broke out. Her children were making dinner and left grease in the pan with the stove eye still on

 “I have two jobs. I was at my second job,” she said.” “[It was] about 6:30 was when I got the call.”

The pan burst into flames and destroyed the home. Each member of her family escaped safely.

The Stratford community has already responded with financial donations, gift cards, and other household items.

Mrs. Donna Kay McGoldrick, director of human resources at Stratford, said, “Friday, I sent an email out to all of the employees just to try to get her some help quickly. Right now, she doesn’t have a place to put furniture because she is living with her father but I thought their family could probably use some clothes. So I sent an email to all the employees and it was responded to greatly. By the end of the day we sent her home with over $2000 in cash and gift cards… and the money is still coming in.”

Concerning the help Stratford has shown her and her family, Tucker is extremely grateful.

“I’m so thankful because I haven’t been here that long,” she said “To see the love and support that I have recieved from everyone…my family and I are truly thankful. And I just want to say ‘thank you’, and just thank all of them – everybody.”

Stratford continues to rally around Tucker.  A GoFundMe campaign has been started here.  As of Friday, over $5400 has been raised.

Stratford students interested in contributing clothing donations are encouraged to do so. Below are the family member’s ages and sizes.