For most Northern Virginians, the 5.8 earthquake last August was just a small disruption in the day. But for the people in Louisa County, the earthquake was a devastating disaster that left many schools facing cracked walls and collapsed ceilings.

Soon after the earthquake, the administrators of Louisa County High School and Thomas Jefferson Elementary School realized that the damages to their schools from the earthquake were too severe to allow school to start. Ever since then, their classes have been held in a warehouse.

When Langley Latin teacher Dr. Joan Tannenbaum heard about the plight of the Louisa County schools, and the estimated $50 million needed to repair the schools, she was spurred to action. Thus, the Latin Club gift card drive was born. Students at Langleywere asked to select a grade they would like to sponsor. After purchasing a gift card and turning it in, they were allowed to place a cut-out paper mitten honoring their donation on the poster outside Dr. Tannenbaum’s room.

So far, the club has acquired about $750 worth of gift cards to stores such as Home Depot and Target. “It’s the season for giving,” said Tannenbaum.

“Dr. Tannenbaum is just a really dedicated and loving teacher,” added junior Nika Rahini.

“I hope the Latin Club can do even more in the future to support people who are in need,” said Tannenbaum.